Dublin City Council has met with the Shannon International River Basin District Advisory Council (ShIRBD) to discuss the need for new water sources to meet the growing demand in the Dublin region over the next seven years.

Dublin City Council and its consultants, RPS-Veolia, said a new source cannot be to the detriment of any other area, including the River Shannon.

The council revealed it was considering 10 further options.

Tom Leahy, the council's Executive Manager said: "We are carrying out extensive studies and we are holding public consultations to determine the best water source for all concerned."

Mr Leahy said ten water supply options are currently being studied by consultants in order to assess their potential for providing water supplies to the Dublin region from approximately 2016 onwards.

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The options being considered include taking water from Lough Ree or a combination of Lough Ree and Lough Derg, storing excess water in winter from Lough Ree and / or Lough Derg for use during dry spells, as well as taking water from Parteen Basin on the River Shannon.

Building a desalination plant, using groundwater and taking water from a combination of the Liffey and Barrow rivers are also being considered.

"We have carried out extensive consultation for this project over the last three years and greatly appreciate the positive contributions that have been made by numerous stakeholders," said Mr Leahy.

Following feedback from the public, the ten options will be ranked and more detailed studies carried out on the most viable options.

After a preferred source is identified, likely at the end of 2009, the recommendations can be fully considered, the council said.

"Dublin City Council is delighted to welcome the ShIRBD Advisory Council to Dublin and to have the opportunity to give their members a full technical briefing at this stage," added Mr Leahy.

(PR/JM)