More than 100 Irish water sector representatives from government, the environmental and economic regulators; councils; utilities; NGOs; contractors and consumer bodies will meet on April 21 to discuss how the sector will implement the much needed plans to upgrade Ireland’s water infrastructure, water environment and service delivery. The 5^th annual Water Ireland Conference and Exhibition, to be held at the Pillo Hotel, Ashbourne, Co Meath, (formerly the Ashbourne Marriott) and a mere 20 minutes from Dublin airport, will address both the water sector’s recent advances and the challenges ahead in the drive towards a sustainable, clean and reliable water service at a price that is fair for all. There is the potential of political upheaval to come this year as a result of the general election, which is to be held on February 26. The conference is a timely opportunity to reflect on the election results and the predicted repercussions for a national water utility which is finding its feet and the rest of the water sector. The 2016 Water Ireland Conference programme will address the sector’s economic, regulatory and customer challenges; wastewater innovation and infrastructure; environmental concerns including the implementation of the Water Framework Directive; water quality and opportunities for collaboration with the supply chain. There is also a networking exhibition showcasing the latest water technologies and solutions. The day will be moderated by the environment editor at the 'Irish Independent', Paul Melia, and speakers will include:

• Sheenagh Rooney, director for water, Commission for Energy Regulation;
• Dr Tom Collins, chair, Public Water Forum;
• Mark Macaulay, water supply strategy lead, Irish Water;
• Ger Shortle, agricultural catchments programme manager, Teagasc;
• Darragh Page, senior inspector - drinking water team, Environmental Protection Agency;
• Kate Gannon, water conservation strategy lead, Irish Water;
• Brendan Minihane, senior project engineer, Cork County Council;
• Mark Adamson, head of flood relief and risk management division, Office of Public Works.

The conference and exhibition takes place on April 21 at the Pillo hotel in Ashbourne, Co Meath. A pre-conference networking dinner will take place at the same venue on April 20. Find out more information book a place at the event: www.wwt-ireland.net/?utm_source=Engineers%20Journal&utm_medium=Engineers%20Journal%20-%20Editorial&utm_campaign=Engineers%20Jornal)