Water discolouration issues resolved in parts of Cork city

A Cork TD has welcomed news that ongoing issues with discoloured water in some areas of Cork city have been resolved.

Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould described the resolution for some Uisce Éireann customers as “positive news after a long number of weeks and months for homes and businesses” who experienced persistent discoloured running water.

Deputy Gould said, however, that there are still families whose tap water is running brown on the northside of the city in areas including Farranree, Gurranabraher, Ballyvolane, Mayfield, The Glen, Knocknaheeny and Tower.

“This has caused huge upset for people - they are worried about potentially accidentally drinking brown water. The additional cost of bottled water, in the midst of a cost of living crisis, was a significant burden, especially on those with babies or vulnerable customers.

“People were extremely frustrated at the damage to washing machines and showers alongside the obvious potential health impacts.” 

Mr Gould met with Uisce Éireann on Friday and was given a plan to remedy the brown water, including deep cleaning of reservoirs in Knocknaheeny and Shanakiel.

“I am disappointed I couldn’t be given a timeframe for the issues to be resolved. I have written to the HSE and the EPA raising this concern,” he said.

On Tuesday, Uisce Éireann released a statement saying it continues to work to improve water quality and supply for homes and businesses in Cork city.

A further programme of flushing works, which will last approximately two weeks, got underway last week and will work through Corrib Lawn, Boyne Crescent, Ballinderry Park, Annalee Grove, Gweedore Avenue, Glencree Crescent, Liffey Park, Shannon Lawn, Lagan Grove, Murmont Court, Murmount Grove, Avonmore Park, Glenamoy Lawn, Spring Vale and Old Youghal Road.