There's more than just a boil notice worrying the residents of Drumconrath

Deep concern over possible cancer causing agents in the Drumconrath supply have been expressed by local residents, with one woman describing the water as "pure poison."

A boil water notice is currently in place for the Drumconrath supply, and while local residents say they are concerned at the dangers from bacteria, they are also extremely anxious about Trihalomethanes (THMs), which may be carcinogenic, in the water.

Some studies suggest a link between long term exposure to THMs and cancer and reproductive effects, but according to the HSE website, the evidence is not conclusive. Irish Water confirmed that there are some concerns about possible health risks from drinking water with elevated THM levels, but stressed they are currently uncertain and unproven.

Local publican, Pauline Fay, described the water supply as “pure poison.”

“What I most worry about is what is going into the water.

“Why is it that few people in Drumconrath make it to old age - there are so many people dying of cancer. It is a massive worry.”

Local councillor, Michael Gallagher has called for a new water source for the Drumconrath supply, describing Lough Bracken, the current source, as unsuitable and suggests using the nearby River Dee as a source.

FULL STORY - SEE THIS WEEK'S MEATH CHRONICLE