As Gibraltar’s drinking water regulator on behalf of the Government, the Environmental Agency regularly participates in the UK and Republic of Ireland Drinking Water Regulator Meetings. These gatherings bring together officials from England and Wales’ Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Guernsey’s Office of Environmental Health and Pollution Regulation, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Drinking Water Quality Division of the Scottish Government, and Gibraltar’s Environmental Agency.

Last week, Gibraltar hosted the latest meeting of the Regulators at the Rock Hotel. These forums serve as a vital platform for regulators to exchange insights on legislation, enforcement, research, and operational matters concerning potable water supply. They ensure Gibraltar remains aligned with the highest British and international standards and stays informed on emerging guidance and best practices.

The Minister for Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change, the Hon John Cortes, welcomed the delegates. He expressed his appreciation for the collaborative spirit of the forum and the inclusion of Gibraltar’s regulators in these important discussions. The Minister highlighted the critical role of water regulation in public health and environmental stewardship, especially in the context of Brexit and Gibraltar’s evolving infrastructure.

Minister Cortes also commended the Environmental Agency’s representatives, Chief Environmental Health Officer Christopher Segovia and Senior Environmental Health Officer Ilan Williamson, for their work in maintaining local compliance and for representing Gibraltar’s unique context among British counterparts. Drawing on his background in Biology, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to supporting scientific and regulatory cooperation across jurisdictions.

“These meetings are more than technical exchanges,” said Minister Cortes. “They are a testament to our shared commitment to safeguarding one of our most essential resources. I encourage all participants to continue this valuable dialogue and collaboration.”

For more information on drinking water quality in Gibraltar, visit https://www.environmental-agency.gi/ or contact the Agency directly at 20070620 / admin@eag.gi.