Battle on to get taps flowing

ENGINEERS are working around the clock to repair leaks in 25,000km of water mains around the country as “severe” water shortages continue nationwide and homeowners come to terms with thousands of euro worth of damage.

The ongoing water crisis is affecting homeowners, businesses and local authorities alike as the fall-out from the big freeze and subsequent thaw continues. While many face significant bills to repair flood damage from burst pipes within their own homes, others have little or no water as local authorities work to locate and fix leaks in burst water mains. There are set to be ongoing water restrictions and overnight cuts to supplies throughout the week.

The Department of the Environment’s water services adviser Gerry Galvin warned householders and businesses to heed the request from local authorities to conserve water and notify them of any leaks that may be visible on the streets and to check unoccupied premises for leaks.