Damning report finds major failings in Ireland's protections for air, water, land, nature and climate

"We are always playing catch-up," she said, adding that a forward step in one area was often matched by one or two steps back in another. "We now have virtually no seriously polluted rivers but we have hardly any pristine ones left either."

The report stresses that a healthy environment is crucial for maintaining food quality and the overall health of the nation. Without adequate care for air, water, and land, public health could be at risk.

"We are taking positive actions across multiple fronts, but they are not keeping pace with the growing pressures and our environment is being squeezed." This illustrates the urgency of addressing environmental challenges.

"The challenges are intensifying and the time is getting shorter to deal with them," said senior EPA manager, Andy Fanning, emphasizing the urgency for action on environmental issues.

Read at Irish Independent