Boil Water Notice remains in place for Whitegate Public Water Supply

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of heavy rainfall. This could compromise the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included by visiting www.water.ie and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of our website. 

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE. 

Uisce Éireann recently announced that An Bord Pleanála has upheld planning permission for a new state-of-the-art water treatment facility that will serve just over 10,000 people in the East Cork community of Whitegate and surrounding areas.

In 2022, Uisce Éireann announced a multi-million-euro investment that will put an end to the frequent boil water notices that the community has had to endure, due to various complex issues with the water supply in the area.

Planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023, however following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged. Uisce Éireann has now been informed that An Bord Pleanála has upheld this decision. 

Now that planning has been received, Uisce Éireann are working hard to finalise the required contractual agreements and budgetary approvals, to ensure construction on this vital project can begin in the second half of this year. The construction phase of the project is expected to take approximately 22 months.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health.” 

“I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

“We are delighted to be progressing with the long-term plans for Whitegate and we want to assure the people of Whitegate that we are committed to delivering this new treatment plant in the shortest possible timeframe.”  

“We look forward to working with our colleagues in Cork County Council and the local community on delivering this vital project in the years to come.”

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.

Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of heavy rainfall. This could compromise the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included by visiting our website and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of our website.

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE. However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health." 

“I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.

Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of recent heavy rainfall. This may have compromised the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included on this website and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of our website.

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE.  However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. 

“I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann is pursuing a permanent solution to address the frequent Boil Water Notices that the people of East Cork have experienced over the last number of years. This involves a major upgrade of Kilva Water Treatment Plant. The proposed upgrade works will include a new coagulation, flocculation and clarification system, a new filtration system and a new disinfection system. Significant upgrades will also be made to other aspects of the Kilva Water Treatment Plant site.

Planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023, however following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged. Uisce Éireann is currently awaiting a decision by An Bord Pleanála, however we have been formally notified that there will be a delay to this decision. This will likely impact on our planned delivery timeframes. We are committed to keeping the local community and stakeholders up to date as soon as a decision is made.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.

Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of recent heavy rainfall. This may have compromised the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included on this website and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of our website.

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE.  However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. 

“I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann is pursuing a permanent solution to address the frequent Boil Water Notices that the people of East Cork have experienced over the last number of years. This involves a major upgrade of Kilva Water Treatment Plant. The proposed upgrade works will include a new coagulation, flocculation and clarification system, a new filtration system and a new disinfection system. Significant upgrades will also be made to other aspects of the Kilva Water Treatment Plant site.

Planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023, however following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged. Uisce Éireann is currently awaiting a decision by An Bord Pleanála, however we have been formally notified that there will be a delay to this decision. This will likely impact on our planned delivery timeframes. We are committed to keeping the local community and stakeholders up to date as soon as a decision is made.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.

Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of recent heavy rainfall. This may have compromised the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included on this website and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of our website.

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE.  However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. 

“I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann is pursuing a permanent solution to address the frequent Boil Water Notices that the people of East Cork have experienced over the last number of years. This involves a major upgrade of Kilva Water Treatment Plant. The proposed upgrade works will include a new coagulation, flocculation and clarification system, a new filtration system and a new disinfection system. Significant upgrades will also be made to other aspects of the Kilva Water Treatment Plant site.

Planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023, however following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged. Uisce Éireann is currently awaiting a decision by An Bord Pleanála, however we have been formally notified that there will be a delay to this decision. This will likely impact on our planned delivery timeframes. We are committed to keeping the local community and stakeholders up to date as soon as a decision is made.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.

Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of recent heavy rainfall. This may have compromised the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included by visiting www.water.ie and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of water.ie. 

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE. However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. 

“The water quality issues on this supply are well documented. We have always aimed to keep all stakeholders as informed as possible regarding the potential for Boil Water Notices if there was a period of heavy rainfall. This will continue to be the case until the significant upgrade to the water treatment plant has been completed. I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann is pursuing a permanent solution to address the frequent Boil Water Notices that the people of East Cork have experienced over the last number of years. This involves a major upgrade of Kilva Water Treatment Plant. Planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023, however following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged. Uisce Éireann is currently awaiting a decision by An Bord Pleanála, however we have been formally notified that there will be a delay to this decision. This will likely impact on our planned delivery timeframes. We are committed to keeping the local community and stakeholders up to date as soon as a decision is made.

The proposed upgrade works will include a new coagulation, flocculation and clarification system, a new filtration system and a new disinfection system. Significant upgrades will also be made to other aspects of the Kilva Water Treatment Plant site.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.
• Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section on water.ie, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann would like to remind customers supplied by the Whitegate Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on 18 October remains in place.

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of recent heavy rainfall. This may have compromised the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included by visiting www.water.ie and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of water.ie. 

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE.  However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is always our number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. 

“The water quality issues on this supply are well documented. We have always aimed to keep all stakeholders as informed as possible regarding the potential for Boil Water Notices if there was a period of heavy rainfall. This will continue to be the case until the significant upgrade to the water treatment plant has been completed. I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann is pursuing a permanent solution to address the frequent Boil Water Notices that the people of East Cork have experienced over the last number of years. This involves a major upgrade of Kilva Water Treatment Plant. Planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023, however following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged. Uisce Éireann is currently awaiting a decision by An Bord Pleanála, however we have been formally notified that there will be a delay to this decision. This will likely impact on our planned delivery timeframes. We are committed to keeping the local community and stakeholders up to date as soon as a decision is made.

The proposed upgrade works will include a new coagulation, flocculation and clarification system, a new filtration system and a new disinfection system. Significant upgrades will also be made to other aspects of the Kilva Water Treatment Plant site.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.
• Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section on water.ie, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278. 

Uisce Éireann in partnership with Cork County Council has issued a Boil Water Notice for customers supplied by Whitegate Public Water Supply, following consultation with the HSE. This notice is being issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 9,000 customers due to increased turbidity in the raw water source as a result of recent heavy rainfall. This may have compromised the disinfection process at the water treatment plant which makes the water safe to drink. 

Areas impacted include Aghada, Churchtown, Ballycotton, Saleen, Shanagarry, Ballinacura and areas of Cloyne. Customers can check if their property is included by visiting www.water.ie and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is attached and available to view on the supply and service section of water.ie. 

Drinking water process specialists from Uisce Éireann are working to address the turbidity issues at the treatment plant and lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible, in consultation with the HSE. However, given the limitations of the existing water treatment plant infrastructure, it could prove extremely difficult to lift the boil water notice during the winter months when raw water turbidity levels tend to spike.

Uisce Éireann’s Operations Lead, Niall O’Riordan, regrets the inconvenience to impacted customers, adding, “Public health is Uisce Éireann’s number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. 

“The water quality issues on this supply are well documented. We have always aimed to keep all stakeholders as informed as possible regarding the potential for Boil Water Notices if there was a period of heavy rainfall. This will continue to be the case until the significant upgrade to the water treatment plant has been completed. I want to again acknowledge that we understand the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses in the community, and would like to assure customers that we are working to resolve the issue and lift this Boil Water Notice, in conjunction with the HSE, as quickly and as safely as possible.” 

Uisce Éireann is pursuing a permanent solution to address the frequent Boil Water Notices that the people of East Cork have experienced over the last number of years. This involves a major upgrade of Kilva Water Treatment Plant. A contractor has been appointed to undertake the design and construction, land has been acquired and planning permission was initially approved by Cork County Council in May 2023. Following the statutory planning process, appeals were subsequently lodged and Uisce Éireann are currently awaiting a decision from An Bord Pleanála, which may impact delivery timelines. Uisce Éireann will continue to keep communities updated on the status of the project once we are notified of this decision.   

The proposed upgrade works will include a new coagulation, flocculation and clarification system, a new filtration system and a new disinfection system. Significant upgrades will also be made to other aspects of the Kilva Water Treatment Plant site

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the HSE are consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue with the aim of the lifting of the notice as quickly as it is safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on BWNs. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

• Drinking;
• Drinks made with water;
• Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
• Brushing of teeth;
• Making of ice - discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

• Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
• Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
• Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
• Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
• Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.
• Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section on water.ie, on X (formerly Twitter) @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.