Water conservation order to be lifted in some counties and extended in others

The Water Conservation Order in place by Uisce Éireann will be lifted across much of the country and extended in other parts.

It comes following an improvement in the availability of water for supply and increased rainfall.

The nationwide Water Conservation Order currently in place is due to expire at 23:59 on Wednesday, 26 August.

It was introduced on 24 July following a prolonged period of hot and dry weather, high water use and increasing pressure on public water supplies.

The decision reflects the positive impact of public water conservation efforts and improved conditions in many areas.

In parts of the east and south, however, water sources and public water supplies remain under pressure and require continued protection.

Uisce Éireann is asking customers in these 13 counties to continue avoiding non-essential water use.

The extension will help conserve available water and protect supplies for homes, businesses, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers and essential services.

Uisce Éireann will continue to monitor water sources, demand and the availability of water for distribution.

“We have received great support from the public for our water conservation appeal, which has helped reduce demand significantly in many areas. The collective efforts of communities to reduce unnecessary water use have made a real difference in protecting our essential supplies,” Margaret Attridge, Head of Water Operations with Uisce Éireann, said.

Customers in areas where the Order is being lifted are still encouraged to use water wisely.

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.

Uisce Éireann is continuing to take operational measures to maintain supplies, including maximising water production, repairing leaks, moving water by tanker where necessary and managing the network to reduce the risk of outages.

The public can help by reporting visible leaks on the public water network to Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 or through water.ie.

Additional water conservation advice is available at water.ie/conservation.