A BOIL water notice impacting residents on the Foynes/Shannon Estuary Public Water Supply, that has been in place since May 13, is still in place.
That’s according to a statement issued by Uisce Éireann on Friday (June 9), reminding customers on the supply system that water should still be boiled before use to protect public health.
The notice, first issued almost one month ago, was set down after cryptosporidium – which can be detrimental to the health of severely immunocompromised people – was found following testing at the Shannon Estuary Water Treatment Plant.
Friday’s statement from Uisce Éireann assured the public that the company is “continuing to investigate the causes of the crypto detection” and “implementing remedial measures” to processes as well as undertaking upgrades at the plant.
The statement read: “Uisce Éireann, in partnership with Limerick City and County Council, continues to progress works to lift the boil water notice in place for customers supplied by Foynes/Shannon Estuary Public Water Supply.”
“The notice, issued last month, remains in place following the detection of cryptosporidium at the Shannon Estuary Water Treatment Plant. Uisce Éireann continues to investigate the causes of the crypto detection as well as implementing remedial measures to existing processes, and is also undertaking upgrades at the plant.”
The areas served by the Foynes/Shannon Estuary Public Water Supply include Askeaton, Foynes, Ballyhahill, Loghill, Ballysteen, Pallaskenry, Kildimo, and Shanagolden and surrounding areas.
Customers in these areas, on advice from Uisce Éireann, should continue to boil their water before use, but are reminded that the water is safe to drink once it has been boiled.
According to Uisce Éireann’s statement, a full resolution to the notice may still be a number of months away.
Duane O’Brien from Uisce Éireann said: “Public health is Uisce Éireann’s number one priority and I want to acknowledge the inconvenience that this boil water notice is causing to the local community.”
“We are progressing with plans to install an ultraviolet reactor at the Shannon Estuary Water Treatment Plant. This reactor will render any cryptosporidium in the water inactive. This is a large piece of equipment, bespoke to the site, and it requires a significant amount of accommodation works in advance of its installation.”
“Unfortunately, there is no short-term solution available to us, and it is likely to take some months before this equipment is operational at the plant.
“Please be assured we are working to resolve the issue and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible.
“We will continue to provide regular updates to the community as we work to address these issues,” Mr O’Brien concluded.
Until the boil water notice is lifted, consumers in affected areas are reminded to boil water for: drinking; drinks made with water; preparing salads and similar foods not cooked prior to eating; hygiene and brushing of teeth; and making ice.
