Madam, - I refer to the letter from Gavin Tobin (April 14th) on the need for percolation testing by a suitably qualified professional before a septic tank system is installed. Readers should note that Ireland has no standard covering the design, installation, use, maintenance and - in particular - the performance of septic tanks. Reliance is placed on a set of vague and outdated recommendations.
Over five years ago the EU, with Irish participation, completed a standard for septic tank systems applicable to countries where no national standard existed. However, Ireland's Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government, for whatever reasons, has never implemented the standard. It is therefore not surprising that our ground and surface water is contaminated and that the EU is now taking legal action to force Ireland to take measures to protect our water sources. - Yours, etc,
ASHLING McNEILL, Malahide, Co Dublin.