This notice, which was first issued on 26 September 2023 as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 2,300 customers, was put in place due to the detection of cryptosporidium in the water supply.
The notice impacts all customers supplied by the Cappamore Foileen Public Water Supply, including Carrigmore, which is now supplied from the Cappamore Scheme.
"We recognise the significant inconvenience to impacted customers," said Uisce Éireann's Duane O’Brien.
"Public health remains the number one priority for Uisce Éireann. Our drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann's enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE (Health Service Executive) are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health."
Works are continuing by Uisce Éireann to safely lift this notice in the shortest possible timeframe while upgrades are also ongoing at the plant.
This includes the installation of a state-of-the-art ultraviolet disinfection unit which will provide an effective and reliable barrier to eliminate the risk of cryptosporidium.
Detailed design work, construction of a new access road and earthworks has also been completed. The ultraviolets (UVs) are currently in transit with the installations works and associated pipework scheduled to commence this month.
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The ESB are also working to upgrade the site and we are working closely with the ESB to minimise any potential delay. Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.
Water must be boiled for: Drinking; Drinks made with water; Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating; Brushing of teeth; Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.
The actions which should be taken: Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads); Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling; Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink; Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water.
When preparing infant formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula.
All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water' as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does.
'Natural Mineral Water' can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.
Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.
Customers can check if their property is included by visiting www.water.ie and entering the property's Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of www.water.ie.
