A new EPA environmental report has found that raw sewage is still being pumped into a number of Clare's waterways.
The agency has identified 43 locations across the country where untreated sewage is being pumped into the sea and rivers, including 5 in this county.
The Environmental Protection Agency says 29 larges towns and cities around the country have failed to meet EU standards.
Untreated sewage is being dumped into the sea and rivers at 43 locations, including five in Clare.
These are Ballyvaughan, Liscannor, Kilkee, Kilrush and Clarecastle, and the report indicates that it will be 2019 before issues in those areas are addressed.
This comes amid a lack of investment in infrastructure which has dropped by 40 percent, in the last decade.
The agency says significant funding is required for waste water treatment if pollution and health risks to be avoided.
It has also identified other issues in Ennistymon, Kilmihil, Lahinch, Lisdoonvarna and Shannon Town.
