There was no real improvement in the water quality of Irish lakes, rivers, and coasts last year, with agriculture the primary culprit for pollution, according to the State's environmental watchdog.

The EPA said fertilisers and manure had exacerbated nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the country's rivers and lakes.

Nitrogen levels in rivers and groundwater increased overall between 2021 and 2022.

The report says nitrogen was too high in 40% of river sites. In addition, it said, phosphorus levels were too high in 28% of rivers and 36% of lakes.

The EPA says the agricultural industry along with Irish Water, must take action to address the issues.