*A water tanker in Liscannor. Photograph: John Sheridan.
OVERNIGHT water restrictions are to be introduced across North Clare from tonight (Thursday).
Targeted overnight restrictions are being introduced by Uisce Éireann and will remain in place for at least four nights with a further operational assessment scheduled for Monday (July 20th).
Restrictions are to be introduced in Ballyvaughan, Ennistymon, Fanore, Doolin, Kilfenora, Kilshanny, Lahinch, Liscannor and Lisdoonvarna from 10pm on Thursday night until 8am on Friday morning. The same restrictions will remain on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights until a review on Monday.
Uisce Éireann have said the current spell of warm weather has resulted in supplies getting used faster than water can be treated. While raw water sources remain stable, the level of demand is placing pressure on the treatment process. This means treated water is being used more quickly than it can be produced and stored in local reservoirs.
Periods of sustained high demand can lead to reduced pressure and, in some cases, interruptions to the availability of water for customers. As a result of high demand, Uisce Éireann is introducing targeted nighttime restrictions to protect daytime supply for homes and businesses. Uisce Éireann have said they will continue to monitor water levels closely in Clare and adjust operations daily based on demand, usage and weather conditions.
Darragh Conneely, Operations Manager, Uisce Éireann explained, “Night-time restrictions are being implemented to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water”.
The Clare Echo reported in this week’s edition that the well of North Clare’s water supply was close to running dry prompting the deployment of tankers to the area on Monday and Tuesday to fill reservoirs. St Brigid’s Well ran dry earlier this week while concern had been expressed that the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre was close to a temporary closure due to the scarcity of supply.
