Utility continues work on new water main replacement while repairing burst

07 July 2022

Uisce Éireann is again working with Kerry County Council to restore water as quickly as possible to impacted customers following a further burst to a water main in Ardfert. Whilst every effort is being made to maintain supply to as many customers as possible, the burst is impacting the water supply to customers in Ardfert and surrounding areas in Co Kerry. Uisce Éireann acknowledges the frustration this burst is causing but would like to reiterate the utilities commitment to deliver a new water mains for the area, that will bring greater resilience and reliability to the water supply. 

Dedicated water service crews were mobilised this morning to repair a burst which was impacting the water supply to customers. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the evening. Traffic management will be in place for the duration of the repair works. Typically, it takes two to three hours following repairs for normal supply to restore to all customers affected by an unplanned outage.

To support impacted customers, a water tanker with clean drinking water is available at Ardfert Church Car Park for the duration of the outage. Customers are reminded to use their own containers when taking water from the tanker. Uisce Éireann make every effort to ensure that the alternative drinking water supply provided, including the tanker and dispensing tap, are adequately disinfected.  However as it is not practical to provide sterilised containers for the public to transport drinking water from the tanker to their homes, we cannot guarantee that any containers used by the public do not negatively impact or contaminate the drinking water. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, it is recommended that any members of the public who obtain water from a tanker or bowser boil the water before use.

Oliver Harney, Uisce Éireann, commented: “We understand the inconvenience bursts can have on customers and we appreciate the patience of the community as we work to return normal water supply as quickly as possible. A reminder to customers that there is a tanker available at Ardfert Church Car Park for the duration of the outage.”

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communications from us for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours.

Uisce Éireann understands the inconvenience when a burst occurs and thanks customers for their patience while we work to restore normal supply to impacted customers. 

The Uisce Éireann customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on Twitter @IWCare with any queries. For updates please visit the Supply and Service Updates section of our website and enter the reference number KER00049871 it into the search bar.