‘Creaking network and growing population’ factors in recent bursts says Uisce Eireann with pledge to address the issue
Uisce Éireann has said it is committed to addressing water supply issues that have been impacting customers in the Dunboyne area. The water main servicing Dunboyne was built a number of decades ago and is susceptible to bursts in sections due a number of local factors, including the aging network and a growing population.
The company has scheduled a new watermain to supply water to the greater Dunboyne area. A spokesperson said the M3 Parkway project is being delivered to support existing and future developments within the community. It will improve the capacity of the existing water network in the area, while improving performance and reducing demands on the current network. This project is being delivered as part of Uisce Éireann’s Growth and Development Programme.
Construction on this project is due to start in the second quarter of this year.
In the interim, the company says it is also reviewing short-term options for the area to improve operational efficiencies and reduce the impact on local communities.
Uisce Éireann’s Michael Cunniffe, said: “We are fully committed to addressing the concerns of Dunboyne residents and ensuring the highest standards of water supply. This is a priority issue for Uisce Éireann and we are working hard to ensure we reduce interruptions to supply and provide a safe and secure water supply to the Dunboyne community”
“Uisce Éireann apologises to those people who experience interruptions and acknowledge the impact on customers and communities in the area. We are making progress and are committed to finding a solution as quickly as possible.”
"As Uisce Éireann continues to closely monitor supplies, it is urging people to be mindful of water use at home, on farms and in businesses to help conserve water and protect supplies. Simple steps can make a big difference and alleviate the pressure on water supplies.
"Simple actions, such as taking a shorter shower, placing a basin in the sink and fixing leaking taps can all make a significant impact. Uisce Éireann has developed an easy-to-use conservation calculator to help people find out how much water they are saving and what they can do to save even more. Check it out at water.ie/calculator
"This is also a good time for people to spot any underground leaks outside their home or business. Signs of such leaks may include persistent moisture in areas of the lawn or driveway. Uisce Éireann’s first fix free scheme provides for a free leak repair on private property where such a leak is identified. For information on the scheme, along with lots of easy-to-follow water-saving tips, visit water.ie. To report leaks on the public network, or for more information, the Uisce Éireann helpdesk is available 24/7 at 1800 278 278."
The company advises householders to; check their homes are leak free, check for running overflows and fix any dripping taps, cisterns or pipes ; don’t let the tap run -brushing your teeth with the tap running can use up to a staggering six litres per minute, while brushing your teeth with the tap off will use one litre of water.
They point out the average bath uses 80 litres of water compared to an average shower using 49 litres in seven minutes and by turning your five-minute shower into four minutes, you could save up to seven litres of water per day.
"Always ensure your dishwasher and washing machines are fully loaded. A modern washing machine uses approximately 65 litres of water per cycle while a dishwasher uses 20 litres. By ensuring they are fully loaded, not only will you conserve water, but you will also reduce your energy bills."
Uisce Eireann advises businesses to conduct a water audit to see where savings can be made, appoint water stewards who will champion water conservation and invest in water efficient devices and appliances such as dual flush toilets, mixer taps and low flow showers and display water conservation notices and signage.