A report showing no improvement in water quality since 2018 has been described as 'really disappointing'.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found the proportion of rivers in satisfactory biological condition is "relatively unchanged" since 2018 and that there is "no indication yet" of an improvement.
Of the 1,459 river water bodies monitored in 2022 and 2023, the number of declines (232) exceeded the number of improvements (187).
Net improvements were noted in the Liffey, Slaney, Moy and Erne river catchments with net declines were noted in the Nore, Suir, Barrow, Shannon, Lee, Laune, Feale and Lough Swilly river catchments.
EPA Director of Evidence and Assessment Eimear Cotter told Newstalk Breakfast any improvements are being 'cancelled out'.
"What we're seeing is that there's no sign of improvement in our water quality when you look at it in the round," she said.
"We do see some improvements in some areas but they are being eroded or cancelled out by declines elsewhere.
"So overall there is no improvement in water quality and that is really disappointing to see".
A dramatic sunset over the River Liffey in Dublin city, 10-2-21. Image: Sam Boal / RollingNews.ieMs Cotter said agriculture and wastewater are the biggest factors.
"The major issue with water quality is nutrient levels that are too high," she said.
"When those levels are too high in our waters that leads to problems.
"The main source is nuitients is from the agriculture sector and from inadequate treated wastewater."
'Right quantity in the right place'
Ms Cotter said changes could come from better farming practices.
"There needs to be enhanced focus on looking at farm management practices - when fertiliser is being pit out, for example," she said.
"Is it being put out at the right time, in the right quantity, in the right place.
"What you want is that it's being used to grow whatever is being grown and not wasted and leached into the environment."
Ms Cotter added that there also needs to be "ongoing investment" in infrastureutre by Uisce Éireann.
Annual average river nitrate concentrations nationally were the same in 2023 as in 2022 and there
was no sign of an improvement, the report found.
Nitrate concentrations remain too high in 42% of river sites mainly in the South East and Midland and Eastern regions.
