Water Conservation Order extended in Wexford

By Dan Walsh

Uisce Éireann has confirmed that the Water Conservation Order for Wexford will be extended until September 30th, as water sources and public water supplies in the county remain under pressure and need more time to recover.

The current nationwide Order is due to expire on Wednesday. However, the Order will remain in place in Wexford and 12 other counties where continued protection of water supplies is required. The extension is subject to prevailing weather conditions and the availability of water for distribution.

Uisce Éireann’s Padraig Lyng told WexfordLocal.com; “Although conditions have improved in many parts of the country, Wexford water sources and public water supplies need more time to recover. Extending the Water Conservation Order will help us protect the water that is available and reduce the risk of disruption to customers.

“Simple actions can make a real difference. Taking shorter showers, fixing dripping taps or leaking toilets, running washing machines and dishwashers only when full, and using a watering can instead of a hose will all help,” added Mr. Lyng.

The Water Conservation Order was introduced on July 16^th for Wexford following a prolonged period of hot and dry weather, high water use and growing pressure on public water supplies.

Water supplies in Wexford continue to experience sustained pressure following a significant increase in demand during June and July. In the South Wexford Water Resource Zone, demand reached record levels and remains elevated, despite improvements following the introduction of conservation measures.

Customers are being asked to continue using only the water they need and to avoid non-essential water use. This will help conserve the water currently available and protect supplies for homes, businesses, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers and essential services. 

The public can help by reporting visible leaks on the public water network to Uisce Éireann on 1800 278 278 or through water.ie. Further water conservation advice is available at water.ie/conservation.