Water supply breakthrough for East Kerry

A LONG campaign for a proper public water supply in East Kerry reached a climax yesterday with the signing of a €3m contract, in Rathmore, for a new scheme.

The area had been experiencing night-time cut-offs in supply for about 35 years and there was not enough water to meet demands.

The new scheme will cater for the water requirements of domestic and agricultural consumers for the foreseeable future, according to Kerry County Council. The upgrading of the supply in the Rathmore, Gneeveguilla and Barraduff areas, will involve the laying of 19km of mains and the building of reservoirs and pump houses.

Kerry mayor Toireasa Ferris said, “The provision of a high quality, plentiful supply of drinking water will underpin the viability of this rural community by facilitating growth in population, agriculture, tourism and industry.” Speaking on behalf of the local community, Martin Murphy welcomed the development which, he said, was the culmination of a long, intense period of discussion between elected representatives, council officials, voluntary community activists and the Department of the Environment. “The result is the largest water infrastructural development ever undertaken in the Sliabh Luachra hinterland,” Mr Murphy said.

“The scheme will encourage development and will enable more people to reside in the area, with a marvellous spin-off for businesses, schools, sporting organisations and many other interests.”