Cork Schemes Apply For New Public Water Fountains As National Roll-Out Expands

Two Cork group water schemes are among 57 nationwide that have applied for funding to install free public drinking water fountains, as the Government backs the installation of up to 84 new fountains before the end of the year.

Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy, has welcomed the planned installation of up to 84 new public drinking water fountains by the National Federation of Group Water Schemes (NFGWS) under the Public Drinking Water Fountain Scheme.

By the end of July 2026, 57 schemes had applied for funding, covering 19 counties. Cork accounts for two of those applications. Elsewhere in Munster, Tipperary leads with six, followed by Limerick with four and Clare with two. Galway has the highest number nationally at eleven.

The Department has been careful to caveat the figures, noting that the numbers are based on a preliminary survey and are not a reflection of the total. Exact locations will become available later in the year, once surveys and assessments of suitability have taken place.

Cork also features in the earlier round of the scheme. The accompanying details of schemes funded in 2025 list Curraglass Group Water Scheme as the county's only entry.

Alan Dillon, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Circular Economy:

"Drinking fountains are a vitally important part of reducing waste by providing the public with option to refill their reusable bottles at convenient locations across the country. They are also a real asset to local communities, not only creating a civic amenity, but reducing plastic bottle waste in our towns, on our beaches, and across our countryside. This expansion builds on the hugely successful existing scheme, which saw 43 fountains installed last year and I look forward to its continued growth across Ireland."

The scheme is supported by €610,000 from the Circular Economy Fund, which provides financial support annually across a wide range of initiatives under the Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022.

The stated aim is to make it easier for people to choose refillable alternatives to single-use plastic bottles, reducing waste, preventing litter and promoting more sustainable consumption habits in communities across the country.