For example, when there are bottlenecks, mayors have to decide who to turn off
Vienna (OTS) – On the occasion of World Water Day tomorrow (March 22nd) and the ever-deteriorating water supply situation in Austria and Europe, younion _ The Daseinsunion points out serious deficiencies in the Austrian drinking water security plan.
For example, there are no clear regulations as to who will receive preferential treatment in the event of a crisis. Thomas Kattnig, member of the younion Federal Presidium: “There is a lack of clear action measures that ensure that the population is cared for before industry, agriculture and tourism. The responsibility is passed on to the communities. The mayors must also expect that the municipalities will face liability issues.”
Studies from recent years show that water demand in Austria will increase significantly in the future, while water stocks will decline. In agriculture in particular, more irrigation will be required due to the higher temperatures. younion _ The Daseinsunion has therefore been calling for forward-looking planning of the amount of water used, investments in water infrastructure and securing the groundwater table for years.
“Federal Minister Totschnig has not yet responded adequately to the challenges of water supply. What is now needed quickly is a drinking water security plan that is worthy of the name. And this time the social partners must also be involved,” demands Thomas Kattnig.
Better planning and database required
Another problem is the insufficient database. It is unclear how much water is actually withdrawn by agriculture and other users. In its investigation, the Court of Auditors also recently called for the introduction of a digital population register in order to have an overview of water withdrawals and approved quantities.
In addition to national measures, a European framework strategy, an “EU Blue Deal”, is also needed for a public water supply of high quality and at affordable prices.
Such a pact, which takes into account the human right to water, the fair distribution of water resources and the improvement of water infrastructure, rejects liberalization and privatization efforts and strengthens research and innovation, was recently called for by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). . For example, the existing water supply network in many Member States suffers from high water losses due to leaks. A thorough assessment of the infrastructure and an identification of investment needs are therefore required.
The EU Commission’s efforts in this direction have been put on hold again. It doesn’t look as if any further steps will be taken before the upcoming EU elections.
However, the next commission must put the issue at the top of the agenda at the latest. A separate EU commissioner for the water department would give this issue the necessary weight. Thomas Kattnig, also a member of the EESC and rapporteur on water infrastructure, knows: “Water is the basis of our existence. In order to continue to be adequately supplied with it in the future, we have to handle it carefully and make the right adjustments. In addition to a concrete national emergency plan, this also means an effective European framework strategy.”
Questions & Contact:
younion _ The Dasein Union
Communications and Public Relations Department.
T: 01 31316 83617
E-Mail: presse@younion.at
#younionKattnig #deficiencies #Austrian #Drinking #Water #Security #Plan