Minister Dillon launches new refill station as Mayo expands sustainable water network

Mayo’s commitment to sustainability took another significant step forward as the National Federation of Group Water Schemes (NFGWS) officially launched its Drinking Water Refill Station Project at Crucspullagadaun Loop Walk, Carrowmore, Manulla.

Hosted by the Prison Ballyvary Keelogues Straide (PBKS) Group Water Scheme, the event marked a milestone in improving public access to safe drinking water while reducing single use plastics and strengthening rural amenities across the county.

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with special responsibility for the Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, unveiled the new PBKS refill station and praised the leadership shown by Mayo’s group water schemes in driving practical climate action at community level.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Dillon said: “I am delighted to be here in Mayo with local school children and the PBKS Group Water Scheme to launch this refill station, which my Department was proud to support through grant funding. This is community action at its very best. When people come together with a shared purpose, real change happens. 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.”

Mayo is already emerging as a national leader in the rollout of refill stations, with several local schemes having installed units in recent months. Refill stations are now in place across:

Belcarra Community Group Water Scheme; Callow Lake Group Water Scheme; Glencorrib Group Water Scheme; Kilmovee/Urlaur Group Water Scheme.

These installations form part of a wider national programme supported by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications through the Circular Economy Fund. To date, 43 refill stations have been installed nationwide under the NFGWS initiative, with a total of 80 now in place across Ireland when earlier pilot projects are included.

Each station is designed to reduce plastic waste, support compliance with the recast Drinking Water Directive, and encourage families, walkers, schools, and visitors to adopt more sustainable habits.

Communities across Mayo and beyond have embraced the growing network of refill points. Local group water schemes have also partnered with primary schools, providing reusable bottles and delivering elements of the NFGWS All About Water curriculum. This hands on engagement is helping to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

PBKS GWS was commended at the event for its leadership in sustainability, source protection, and biodiversity. With panoramic views of Croagh Patrick, the Partry and Nephin Mountains, Lough Conn, and Lough Carra, the launch location served as a powerful reminder of the landscapes this project aims to protect.

Pupils from Craggagh National School joined the celebration, adding energy and colour to the event. Attendees heard from Minister Dillon, PBKS GWS board members, ecologist Dr. Karina Dingerkus, and NFGWS CEO Mark Farrelly, who remarked:

“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. The ambition and energy shown by PBKS GWS today is inspiring. Local volunteers and staff consistently step up and deliver projects that make a real difference on the ground.”

The refill station branding reinforces the message that “Safe drinking water starts with us all,” encouraging community involvement in climate action and source protection.

For more information on the project or to get involved with your local group water scheme, visit here.