Niall Gleeson, CEO of Uisce Éireann, is a man who understands better than most how crucial our rivers are for the environment, economy, and society. As the CEO of the Irish Water organization, Gleeson is responsible for managing the country’s water resources and ensuring the delivery of safe, clean, and reliable water services to the nation. In this article, we take a closer look at Gleeson’s work and how he is safeguarding the River Liffey, one of Ireland’s most iconic rivers, against the ever-increasing threat of climate change and pollution.
Uisce Éireann, formerly known as Irish Water, is set to undertake a multibillion-euro investment programme aimed at resolving some legacy issues it inherited when established in 2014. The investment will focus on addressing raw sewage discharges by 2025, ensuring compliance of the State’s largest wastewater treatment plant, and bringing water from the Shannon to the eastern region, which is currently experiencing a shortage of supplies. However, Uisce Éireann CEO Niall Gleeson acknowledges that climate change is testing the resilience of the supply network and treatment facilities, while increasing demand highlights the critical importance of reliable water systems. Gleeson has a career immersed in infrastructure and moved to Uisce Éireann after working with big players in the private sector, including General Electric and Alstom. While acknowledging the progress made so far, he believes a considerable amount of work is still required to ensure a “national approach” is taken to creating more efficient plants, catering for a growing population and prioritising investment in the right places. Gleeson also highlights the challenge of planning larger infrastructure projects, although he believes it remains important for such projects to gain approval.
In conclusion, Niall Gleeson’s dedication to protecting the river Liffey reflects the vital role that waterways play in our communities and ecosystems. As the CEO of Uisce Éireann, he has made significant strides in reducing pollution and advocating for sustainable practices that support the health of our rivers and the people who rely on them. His deep commitment to this important cause is a reminder of the urgent need for action to protect our precious water resources, and to ensure their continued availability for generations to come. In short, Niall Gleeson’s work serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those working towards a more sustainable and water-resilient future.
