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12 Jan 2026
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12 Jan 2026
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An image of Gola Island situated off the coast of Gweedore Photo: Google Maps
No timeline has been established for when running water will return to Gola Island (Oileán Gabhla).
An undersea pipeline that supplies running water to the 40 houses was damaged back in July 2025 and has not been repaired since, leaving the islanders without a source of running water.
Uisce Éireann and the Government are unable to provide a timeline for when it will be restored to the island, which is situated off the coast of Gweedore.
The issue has been highlighted by Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty and Councillors for the Glenties Municipal District, Cllr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig and Cllr John Sheamais Ó Fearraigh.
"I received the latest response from Uisce Éireann regarding the lack of running water on Gabhla,” Cllr Ó Fearraigh said. “This is an issue both myself and Teachta Pearse Doherty have repeatedly raised since the issue arose last summer.
"It is completely unacceptable that 6 months after the pipeline was damaged, neither Uisce Éireann nor the Government can provide a timeline for when running water will return to the island.
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"The alternative supply of water that has been provided is a tanker of water that residents can go and avail themselves of. It is completely unacceptable for this to be considered as a long-term solution.
"And it's a perfect example of how islanders are being asked to endure conditions that would not be tolerated on the mainland. The lack of urgency and absence of a coordinated response sends a deeply concerning message to island communities across the country.
"This situation also raises serious questions about the credibility of the Government’s Island Strategy. If it is deemed acceptable for an island to go without running water for over 6 months, then one must ask what practical value this strategy has."
Gola Island was unpopulated as late as 1996; however, people have returned to the island.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
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