Drought issues force overnight water restrictions for East Cork supply 

Uisce Éireann has said drought-related operational issues affecting the Midleton water supply scheme have forced it to introduce overnight supply restrictions.

The water utility company said the restrictions are required to conserve water and maintain a daytime supply to customers.

All through this week and running until Monday, September 1, overnight water restrictions will be in place each night from 10pm until 7am the following morning. 

Interruptions

During these times, the company said, people in the Midleton area may experience interruptions to supply, or reduced water pressure.

According to a 2024 report from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Midleton public water supply scheme serves approximately 8,173 people in East Cork.

The measure comes as a water conservation order remains in place in Cork county — excluding Cork city — until September 16.

Last month, Uisce Éireann issued a national appeal urging the public to conserve water amid pressure on supplies.

The water network is experiencing increased pressure on supply in several regions, with water supplies in drought status in several counties after months of drier-than-normal weather conditions.

Niall O’Riordan, water operations manager with Uisce Éireann, said the company had no choice but to introduce supply restrictions, given the drought conditions being experienced nationally: “We understand the inconvenience nighttime restrictions can cause to communities. However, given the increased demand, they are essential to maintain a daytime water supply for homes and businesses while we allow reservoir levels time to recover.”