Thousands of Laois people are having their water supply impacted as new restrictions came into force from last night.
While the recent dry spell has been welcomed by most – Irish Water say it, and increased demand, have left reservoir levels in Portlaoise depleted.
The restrictions will be in place nightly from 10pm to 6am beginning until Sunday July 25.
Irish Water say the night time restrictions are essential to ensure homes and businesses have sufficient supply during the daytime.
A spokesperson confirmed that some customers will have pressure reduced, some will have supply cut off altogether and others will experience little to no change at all – it depends where exactly you are in relation to the nearest reservoir.
The following areas in Portlaoise will be impacted:
Mountmellick Road, Coote Street, Station Road, Harpur’s Lane, Newpark,Beechfield, Woodlawn Villas, New Row, Esker Hills, Ridge Road, Greenmill Lane, Craydon Court, Mill Court, Triogue Manor, Cois Na hAbbhann, Ballyfin Road, O’ Moore Place, Lakeglen, Glenregan, Lynden Court, Liogard, Beechlawn, Rossvale, Elm Lawn, The Garden Village, Fairgreen, Rossleaghan, Kyleclonherbert, Kyletalesha, Derrydavey, Clonreher and surrounding areas.
Irish Water recommends that customers allow 2-3 hours after the estimated restoration time for their supply to fully return.
Irish Water say they understand the inconvenience when restrictions are imposed and are working closely with Local Authority partners across Ireland to ensure there is uninterrupted supply during daytime hours.
John Gavin, Irish Water, said: “We would like to wish the Irish public well as they enjoy some well-deserved sun and staycations this summer.
“We are continuing to work with our local authority partners to ensure everyone enjoys a reliable water supply during the busy summer period and beyond. We are also asking the public to take note of their water usage and conserve where possible.
“Conserving water is something that we should be doing year round, not just when supplies come under pressure due to drought conditions and seasonal increases in demand.
“As demand increases we are appealing to the public to redouble their efforts in conserving water in the home, in the garden, at work and on the farm, especially during the busy months of July and August.
“As rivers, lakes and groundwater levels reduce through the summer and autumn period, there is less water available for supply, while at the same time the warmer weather gives rise to increased water demands for domestic, agricultural and leisure uses.
“There are lots of helpful tips for conserving water on water.ie but the key things are to leave the hose and the pressure washer in the shed; don’t use paddling pools; reuse household water for the garden; and take shorter showers.
“Safeguarding the supply of water is essential at this time when handwashing and hygiene is of critical importance. We are calling on everyone to play their part.”
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