Longford Water Conservation Order to be lifted as supplies improve

Longford’s Water Conservation Order is to be lifted this week following an improvement in water availability and increased rainfall.

Uisce Éireann confirmed the nationwide Water Conservation Order, introduced on July 24, would expire at 11.59pm this Wednesday night, August 26.

The order was first implemented following a prolonged period of hot and dry weather during which the high water usage placed an increasing pressure on public supplies.

Uisce Éireann say they are now in a position to lift the order in Longford as the water treatment plant production in the county fell by 5% from its highest peak demand this summer, the result of both the improved weather conditions and the efforts made by the public to conserve water.

Mairead Conlon, Asset Strategy Senior Manager with Uisce Éireann, said the collective efforts of communities to reduce unnecessary water use had made a “real difference” in protecting essential supplies.

She said, “Simple steps such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaks and leaking toilets, running washing machines and dishwashers only when full, and using a watering can instead of a hose can help protect supplies.”

Customers however are still being encouraged to use water wisely and to report leaks as Uisce Éireann continues to monitor water sources, demand and the availability of water for distribution.