Water conservation order lifted 2 weeks early for Carlow

Uisce Éireann has confirmed that the Water Conservation Order has been lifted in Carlow, two weeks earlier than planned.

The organisation said water levels had stabilised after a period of rainfall and improved water availability. It also noted the extraordinary efforts made by households, businesses, farms and communities across Ireland to reduce water use which helped to protect local water supplies during one of the hottest summers and driest July on record.

The conservation order was introduced for the entire country in July following a prolonged period of dry weather and exceptionally high demand, and was due to remain in place until the end of September. It is now being lifted from today for all remaining counties.

Mairead Conlon, asset strategy senior manager at Uisce Éireann, thanked the Carlow community for their efforts in reducing their water consumption. “By cutting back on non-essential water use, people helped protect local supplies and maintain drinking water for the homes, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers and essential services that rely on it every day.

“While the Water Conservation Order is ending earlier than planned, we are encouraging everyone to continue using water wisely. The past few months have shown the value of being mindful about how we use water and the positive impact small actions can have when taken together. Continued water conservation will help support the recovery of local water sources and ensure water remains available when communities need it most," continued Mairead. 

Some areas, including parts of the Greater Dublin Area, Wexford and South Tipperary, require more time to return to the levels you would usually see at this time of year, noted Mairead.