Refill roll-out injects new energy into Ireland’s green transition

Have you ever been halfway through a walk or run when your water bottle ran dry, leaving you with only a disappointing last drop on a tongue that suddenly felt like sandpaper? Or found yourself noticing more and more discarded single use bottles littering the places you love most? Or have you wondered just how simple it could be to make a meaningful, lasting difference to your local community while helping to protect Ireland’s extraordinary landscapes? 

Well, on Monday February 9, the National Federation of Group Water Schemes (NFGWS) proudly celebrated a major step towards answering those very questions, as it marked the successful launch of its Drinking Water Refill Station Project at Crucspullagadaun Loop Walk, Carrowmore, Manulla, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. The event, hosted by PBKS Group Water Scheme (GWS), showcased a transformative moment for rural communities, advancing public access to safe drinking water while reinforcing Ireland’s national commitment to reducing single-use plastics.

The launch was addressed by Minister Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy, who officially unveiled the PBKS GWS refill station. At the event, the Minister remarked: “I am delighted to be here in Mayo today with local school children and the PBKS Group Water Scheme to launch this refill station which my department provided grant funding for. 

This exhibits the power of community in action, it’s clear how much can be achieved when people come together. This project reduces single‑use plastics, protects our environment, and gives people easier access to clean drinking water, a simple idea delivering big benefits for the whole community.”

A continued commitment to sustainability 

The Drinking Water Refill Station Project formed part of a broader programme supported through the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment’s Circular Economy Fund, contributing to ongoing national efforts to make free, clean drinking water more accessible across Ireland. By the time of the launch, 43 refill stations have already been installed nationwide through the NFGWS led initiative, each one positioned to reduce plastic waste, strengthen community amenities, and support compliance with the recast Drinking Water Directive.

These strategically located stations were designed not only to deliver high quality drinking water but also to help families, walkers, schools, and visitors shift away from single-use bottles in favour of more sustainable habits. The DCEE-funded project follows on from other pilot initiatives, meaning that a total of 80 refill stations have been installed on GWSs around the country to date.

Positive community and educational impact

Communities across Ireland had responded enthusiastically to the growing network of refill stations. Residents praised their convenience, environmental value, and the confidence they provided in accessing safe, high quality drinking water. Participating group water schemes extended this impact even further by engaging directly with local primary schools, providing pupils with reusable water bottles and delivering elements of the NFGWS All About Water curriculum. This hands-on approach empowers young people to become future champions of local water protection and sustainability.

PBKS GWS was recognised at the launch for its exceptional leadership in sustainability, source protection, and biodiversity. With sweeping views of Croagh Patrick, the Partry and Nephin Mountains, Lough Conn, and Lough Carra, the setting offered a powerful reminder of the landscapes the project aims to protect, and the rural communities working to safeguard them.

Event highlights

Local school pupils from Craggagh National School joined the celebration, helping to create a vibrant, community-centred atmosphere. Attendees were welcomed with refreshments and heard contributions from several speakers, including Minister Dillon, members of the PBKS GWS board, Dr. Karina Dingerkus - Ecologist and NFGWS CEO Mark Farrelly, who stated during his warm welcome: “This project has shown just how powerful our group water schemes can be when they work together with a shared purpose.

Each new refill station represents more than improved access to drinking water, it reflects a community taking pride in its place, protecting its environment, and choosing sustainable habits that benefit everyone.

What always impresses me is the ambition and energy, exemplified by PBKS GWS today. Local volunteers and staff consistently step up and deliver projects that make a real difference on the ground. The refill stations’ branding promotes community involvement in climate action and drinking water source protection, delivering the message that ‘Safe drinking water starts with us all’. We’re proud to support our members as they invest in their communities, strengthen local amenities, and champion a cleaner, greener future for rural Ireland.”

For more information on the project or to find out how to get involved with your local group water scheme, please visit www.nfgws.ie. 

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