Uisce Éireann urges Leitrim to cut water use as supplies come under pressure

Uisce Éireann is urging households and businesses across Leitrim to cut down on water use as dry conditions and rising demand put pressure on local supplies.

The South Leitrim Regional Water Scheme — which serves Ballinamore, Drumshanbo, Carrick-on-Shannon, Mohill, and Carrigallen — is already feeling the strain. Reservoir levels have dropped following an unusually dry autumn, winter and spring.

“We’re committed to maintaining a reliable water supply this summer, but we need the public’s help,” said Margaret Attridge, Head of Water Operations at Uisce Éireann. “Now is the time to really consider your water usage and make small changes that add up.”

The appeal comes as part of a wider national campaign, with similar issues reported in Galway, Donegal, Dublin, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, Cork, Meath, Westmeath, Clare and Wexford.

Broadcaster Kathryn Thomas has joined the campaign to highlight the importance of everyday actions. “It’s about creating habits — not just in summer but year-round. Little changes like turning off the tap or using a watering can make a real difference,” she said.

Uisce Éireann’s top tips include:

• Skip the hose — water plants with a can instead

• Take shorter showers — every minute saved can mean up to seven litres conserved

• Turn off the tap while brushing teeth

• Only run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines

• Wash your car with a bucket and sponge, not a hose

To help people track their progress, Uisce Éireann has launched a free online conservation calculator at www.water.ie/conservation.

With several counties now in drought status and restrictions already in place in parts of Westmeath, Donegal and Meath, the message from Uisce Éireann is clear: every drop counts.

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