'Every drop counts': Uisce Éireann announces nationwide hosepipe ban to reduce pressure on supplies

A hosepipe ban, which was in effect for six counties, has since been extended nationwide amid concerns of "intensifying pressure on water sources and treated drinking water supplies." 

A hosepipe ban, which was in effect for six counties, has now been extended nationwide amid concerns of "intensifying pressure on water sources and treated drinking water supplies." 

It comes as Ireland faces a prolonged spell of hot weather which is predicted to continue. 

According to Met Éireann warm weather will continue this week, with temperatures of up to 25C expected during the day. 

On Wednesday, Uisce Éireann said it was taking "all measures to keep water flowing by maximising production, repairing leaks, tankering water and operating the network to minimise outages and protect supplies."

Several groundwater sources are now showing stress, with "reduced or no yields experienced in a number of areas." 

Uisce Éireann said in parts of the Greater Dublin area, as well as popular visitor destinations around the coast, supplies remain under pressure due to high water usage. 

The order, which was initially in effect for Dublin, South Tipperary, and parts of Kildare, Meath, Wexford and Wicklow, will now be extended for all counties and comes into effect at midnight on Friday. It will stay in place until Wednesday, August 26. 

The ban will prohibit the use of a hosepipe or similar tools which are used to water gardens, clean a car or boat, or fill a paddling or home swimming pool. 

Nighttime restrictions are also in place for 53 out of 700 water supplies, mainly in areas where local sources are under pressure. 

Asset strategy senior manager at Uisce Éireann, Mairead Conlon, said: “We are asking everyone to use only what they need and to avoid any non-essential water use until conditions improve.

“Early indications show that people are supporting the water conservation order already in place, with water usage in the Greater Dublin Area beginning to decrease. 

“I want to thank everyone who has taken steps to conserve water. This is making a difference, but pressures remain high, and we are now asking people across the country to continue reducing non-essential use.

“Every drop counts. Continued support from the public will help reduce pressure on supplies and keep water available for essential daily needs.” Uisce Éireann is continuing to ask customers to take practical steps to conserve water at home, including taking shorter showers, fixing leaks and leaking toilets, and avoiding the use of hosepipes or sprinklers in the garden. 

Using a garden hose or sprinkler for just one hour can use more water than the average family uses in a full day.