Latest Macroom boil water notice ‘frustrating’, says councillor

The latest ‘boil water’ notice in Macroom has caused a local councillor to express his frustration over the state of the water supply and express concern over the financial burden that purchasing bottled water would place on families.

The boil water notice, attributed to increased turbidity and a supply shortage at the source, was issued on Tuesday evening by Uisce Éireann and will impact more than 4,000 customers in the town and its environs.

Niall O’Riordan of Uisce Éireann has said that the notice had been put in place to protect public health.

Public Health

“Public health is our number one priority,” he said. “Our compliance and operations experts are working to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible.

“We understand the impact a boil water notice has on the local community, and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Martin Coughlan, the sole Independent councillor on Macroom Municipal District, said that the latest boil water notice was the second this year and there had been two similar notices in 2023 and one in 2022.

“It’s very frustrating for councillors and it’s a concern for families who have to buy water in the local supermarkets,” he said.

According to Mr Coughlan, the water plant in Macroom had been upgraded in 1988 when it served a much smaller population, but since then the town has expanded massively, putting more pressure on the system.

Uisce Éireann has advised customers that water should be boiled for drinking, drinks made with water (eg cordials), preparation of salads and similar foods which are not cooked prior to eating, brushing of teeth, and making ice. Ice cubes that are already in the freezer should be discarded, along with filtered water. Ice can be made from cooled boiled water.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann will receive direct communication.