The organisation has reportedly already begun writing letters requesting for homeowners to check for lead pipes in their homes, with some 28,000 households to received notifications in the coming weeks and months.
While it is being claimed today that replacement of lead piping could cost families up to €5,000, the health risks posed to children in particular have been emphasised.
There is no safe level of lead in water, and exposure can result in developmental delays in children. Exposure to lead in water is said to be particularly harmful for bottle-fed infants, as all of their food during their early months comes from water-mixed formula.
Commenting after today’s announcement, Minister for the Environment Alan Kelly said that low-income families will be receiving grants for the procedure.
Irish Water first identified the problem of existing lead piping after the installation of water metres in homes across the country, and an information campaign is set to be launched in the coming weeks.
