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23 Feb 2026
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23 Feb 2026
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Efforts are to be made by the local authority to secure phone numbers for local representatives of utility companies such as Uisce Eireann | FILE PHOTO
EFFORTS are to be made to secure phone numbers for local representatives of utility companies, such as Uisce Éireann, for elected representatives amid claims of limited access during emergencies and periods of service disruption.
At the February meeting of Adare-Rathkeale Municipal District, Cllr John O’Donoghue, sought clarity on what aspects of water and wastewater services in the district remain under the control of Limerick City and County Council.
In a written reply, Aidan Finn, Limerick Council senior engineer, confirmed the local authority “no longer provides public water or wastewater services” as this function has now transferred to Uisce Éireann.
While a small number of council staff remain seconded to Uisce Éireann, they will have to decide over the next 18 months whether to transfer to the State utility or to be redeployed within Limerick City and County Council.
READ ALSO | Limerick couple who have ‘nowhere to go’ convicted over unauthorised mobile home
Cllr O’Donoghue said when Uisce Éireann did contract council staff it remained “very local” but that this is no longer the case.
He said local intervention can often ensure problems are fixed before Uisce Éireann is even aware there is an issue.
Cllr O’Donoghue highlighted how Uisce Eireann has a helpline for councillors but that after 6pm on Fridays there are delays getting through to someone “who doesn't know where Limerick is”.
Vincent Murray, Director of Service, told elected members that all water-related assets have been transferred to Uisce Eireann and that council staff are “not allowed to touch it anymore” similar to ESB boxes.
In response to Cllr O’Donoghue's motion, Mr Murray indicated he will make efforts to get a number for a local representative adding that Uisce Eireann is “supposed to be documenting information from locals to help facilitate the handover.”
Cllr Adam Teskey said that there are “three main utilities” - Uisce Eireann, ESB and Bord Gais - and “we ain't got a contact (number) for any of them”.
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