Private group water schemes in 10 counties failed E.coli tests last year, according to a new report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Around 200,000 people in rural Ireland get their drinking water from private group schemes, according to EPA estimates. AdvertisementThe agency also monitored 1,600 registered private supplies used by some businesses, schools, and nursing homes. "But if you look at the same size rural counties such as Mayo, they only have 24 private supplies registered. Water suppliers outside the mainstream local authorities are legally responsible for ensuring their water is safe and meets the Drinking Water Regulations.