National Federation of Group Water Schemes

03/11/2026

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Who says a pumphouse has to be boring?

Kilnaboy GWS has turned a functional building into a vibrant community feature that is brightening the local landscape and generating plenty of positive attention.

We think it might just be the brightest GWS pumphouse in Ireland... but we'll let you decide! 😄

📖 Read more: https://nfgws.ie/is-this-the-brightest-gws-pumphouse-in-ireland/

02/11/2026

🌊 Community action matters when it comes to protecting our water resources.

That's why we're delighted to be taking part in Building Water Resilience on 12 November, where Mark Farrelly, CEO of the NFGWS, will share how Group Water Schemes are leading the way in drinking water source protection.

See you there!
https://thewaterforum.ie/building-water-resilience-connecting-policy-action-and-communities/

The conference takes place at a pivotal time for water resilience in Europe. The EU Water Resilience Strategy has set a new direction for European water

29/10/2026

🏆 Winners in Focus: Doohamlet GWS 🏆

Group Water Schemes do far more than provide water. They help strengthen communities, support local initiatives and create lasting positive change.

Our latest Winners in Focus feature, highlights how Doohamlet GWS earned recognition in the GWS Excellence Awards through its outstanding community enhancement work.

📖 Read more: https://nfgws.ie/doohamlet-gws-gws-excellence-awards-winners-in-focus/

27/10/2026

🌧️ Storm Season Is Here

The recent storm served as a reminder of the challenges severe weather can bring for communities and water supplies across the country.

As Group Water Schemes head into another storm season, now may be a good time to review emergency plans, check key infrastructure, and ensure communication arrangements are up to date. Even a few simple preparations can help schemes respond more effectively if disruption occurs.

The NFGWS has put together some practical guidance and tips to support schemes in preparing for severe weather.

👉 https://nfgws.ie/prepare-your-gws-for-severe-weather/

Stay safe, stay prepared, and thank you to all who help keep rural water services running through all conditions.

While many GWSs have significantly enhanced their resilience following past weather events such as Storm Eowyn/Amy/ Bram etc. this page should serve as a reminder of some key points for your GWS to consider as we head into the winter months.

19/10/2026

🙌 Celebrating the people behind Ireland's Group Water Schemes!

From committee meetings and maintenance projects to training and future planning, your commitment helps ensure resilient water services for rural communities nationwide.

Together, we're building a stronger and more sustainable future for rural water.

💧🌱

15/10/2026

💧 Missed the Rural Water Services Conference or want to revisit a presentation?

The NFGWS has made recordings of presentations from the Rural Water Services Conference available online, giving Group Water Schemes, committee members, managers, and rural water stakeholders the opportunity to catch up on key discussions and expert insights at a time that suits them.

🎥 Topics covered include water sustainability, community education, governance, perspectives from Europe, community solutions, and the future of rural water services.

Watch the conference presentation recordings here: 🔗 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPMry5mBqQrU&si=gm0i-1VEvojGk_YZ

Stay informed. Learn from sector experts. Support the future of your scheme.

12/10/2026

An opportunity for local community organisations.

💧 The Catchment Support Fund 2027 is now open for applications! 🌿

Are you a community group or NGO working to protect and improve water quality in Ireland? The River Basin Management Service’s Catchment Support Fund 2027 can help strengthen your organisation and support your work to protect our rivers, lakes and coastal waters.

In 2026, the fund awarded over €1.11 million to 56 groups across 20 counties, alongside two national projects.

📅 Application deadline: 16th November 2026 at 11:30pm

👉 Apply online: https://consult.riverbasin.ie/en/content/rbms-catchment-support-fund-2027

Consult your local Community Water Officer before applying!

The River Basin Management Service administers the Catchment Support Fund on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

12/10/2026

🌍💧 Climate Action starts locally.

Group Water Schemes across Ireland are already making a difference through water conservation, biodiversity projects, and protecting local water sources. This Climate Action Week, let's continue working together for a more sustainable future.



of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

08/10/2026

Sunday 8th of November 12pm - 3pm👇

Join the CALM Project, Loughs Agency and River Basin Management Service staff for an interactive event exploring the science, wildlife and health of the River Finn and its catchment.

Discover how we monitor water quality, learn about the wildlife living in our rivers, and explore practical approaches such as Nature-Based Solutions and sustainable drainage.

Visitors will have the opportunity to get involved with hands-on demonstrations

You can also bring along a water sample from your local river, stream or burn to have it tested during the event.💧

Reserve a space: https://loom.ly/tySB1Vs

08/10/2026

🎬 New videos just dropped on the NFGWS Training Portal! 💧

Grab a tea ☕, take 10 minutes, and explore practical video resources designed for Group Water Scheme members, staff, and volunteers.

✅ Easy to access
✅ Packed with useful information
✅ Created with Group Water Schemes in mind

Start watching today: 🔗 https://nfgws.ie/training-videos-for-group-water-schemes/

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