EPA Urges Action on Sheep Dipping Crisis in Donegal

URGENT UPDATE: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has just announced critical findings regarding the ongoing sheep dipping issues in Donegal, Ireland. In its latest mid-term evaluation of the National Hazardous Waste Management Plan, the EPA has spotlighted significant environmental concerns that demand immediate attention.

According to the report released on August 29, 2025, several rivers in County Donegal, including the Finn and Murlin Rivers, have suffered from toxic impacts due to improper disposal of sheep dip. This hazardous practice has raised alarms among environmentalists and local authorities, as it threatens aquatic life and overall ecosystem health. The EPA’s biological monitoring indicates severe contamination in habitats that were previously classified as healthy.

Donegal County Council has taken proactive measures to combat these challenges. The council has launched countywide information campaigns and initiated a Catchment Care project in the Upper Finn Catchment. Notably, the council has conducted trials involving integrated constructed wetlands at three dipping bath sites. Early monitoring results show promising improvements in aquatic biodiversity within the Upper Finn River, with further assessments scheduled for this year.

In a collaborative effort, a cross-agency forum convened last year, bringing together representatives from the council, the Department of Agriculture, and the EPA to draft a comprehensive Code of Practice for sheep dip disposal. This initiative aims to regulate the activities of mobile dippers, particularly those operating across borders, which have been identified as a major challenge in managing this environmental crisis.

The new Code of Practice is expected to roll out next month, alongside a proposal for a professional user register to ensure compliance and accountability among sheep farmers. These steps are vital for safeguarding local water sources and ensuring community health.

The urgency of addressing these sheep dipping practices cannot be overstated, as local communities face potential ramifications from contaminated water supplies. Farmers and residents alike are urged to stay informed and engaged in these developments, as the EPA continues to monitor the situation closely.

As these initiatives unfold, both the council and the EPA are committed to restoring the health of Donegal’s rivers and protecting the environment for future generations. The situation remains fluid, and updates will follow as more data becomes available.

Stay tuned for more breaking news on this developing story as we bring you updates on the ongoing efforts to resolve the sheep dipping crisis in Donegal.