Hosepipe ban impacted Waterford homes and businesses lifted with immediate effect
The Water Conservation Order was introduced in July following a prolonged period of dry weather and exceptionally high demand
A HOSEPIPE ban that was in place for 13 counties, including Waterford, has been lifted with immediate effect.
Uisce Éireann has confirmed the Water Conservation Order, which was issued in July, is being lifted two weeks earlier than planned.
It says the decision reflects an increase in rainfall and water availability alongside the extraordinary efforts made by households, businesses, farms and communities across Ireland to reduce water use. These efforts, added a spokesperson, helped to protect local water supplies during one of the hottest summers and driest July on record.
The nationwide Water Conservation Order was introduced in July following a prolonged period of dry weather and exceptionally high demand, which had placed significant pressure on public water supplies across the country.
The Order had been due to remain in place until the end of September in Waterford, Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Wexford and Wicklow. It has now being lifted.
Uisce Éireann Asset Strategy Senior Manager, Mairead Conlon said: “We want to thank households and communities across the country for their support while the Water Conservation Order was in place. By cutting back on non-essential water use, people helped protect local supplies and maintain drinking water for the homes, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers, and essential services that rely on it every day.
“While the Water Conservation Order is ending earlier than planned, we are encouraging everyone to continue using water wisely. The past few months have shown the value of being mindful about how we use water and the positive impact small actions can have when taken together. Continued water conservation will help support the recovery of local water sources and ensure water remains available when communities need it most.
“Rainfall over recent weeks has improved the overall picture, but recovery has not been the same everywhere across the country. Some areas, including parts of the Greater Dublin Area, Wexford and South Tipperary, require more time to return to the levels you would usually see at this time of year. Continued careful use of water will help protect these local sources and support their recovery in the weeks ahead.”