Winners, including Belcarra and Brackloon group water schemes, of the GWS Ethos and Volunteerism Special Recognition Award with Hugh O'Reilly NFGWS, and Darragh Walshe, Irish Cooperative Organisation Society.

Seven Mayo group water schemes win national recognition

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The National Federation of Group Water Schemes (NFGWS) has honoured the exceptional contributions of Ireland’s rural water sector at the Rural Water Services Conference.

The ceremony was one of the highlights of the annual conference, bringing together community leaders, volunteers, and water professionals from across the country.

With over 200,000 people served by group water schemes nationwide, the awards shine a spotlight on the innovation, resilience, and community spirit that define this vital sector.

This year’s event saw a record number of entries, reflecting the growing momentum and pride within the movement

Excellence Flags were also presented to group water schemes who met and surpassed the standard set by the panel of independent judges.

They included a number of Mayo schemes:

Lough Cumnel (Killeen) GWS

Parke BKS GWS

Kilmovee Urlaur GWS

Midfield GWS.

A number of other Mayo group schemes were presented with Ethos and Volunteerism Award for the extraordinary efforts of volunteers and staff, particularly in response to the widespread disruption caused by Storm Eowyn earlier this year.

They included:

Belcarra GWS,

Brackloon GWS.

Killaturley GWS.

Speaking at the event, NFGWS CEO Mark Farrelly commended the awardees: "The group water schemes and their dedicated volunteers form the backbone of rural water provision in Ireland.

"Their impact extends far beyond infrastructure — it is rooted in people, place, and purpose.

"Highlighting and honouring this work is essential to ensuring its value is understood, appreciated, and sustained."

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