Disappointment over ‘no immediate start date’ to replace water mains in local village

Disappointment has been expressed that Uisce Éireann has not committed to “an immediate start date” to replace the water mains in Cloonfad.

Local people in Cloonfad and surrounding areas have been forced to deal with constant disruption to their water supply over the last number of years because of regular bursts on an ageing mains.

Local Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice recently received another update on the planned water mains upgrade for Lowberry in Cloonfad.

He was informed that that there “are no timelines yet, project design is still in progress and construction is estimated to begin in the year”.

Speaking to the Roscommon Herald, Cllr Fitzmaurice said he was hoping the works was going to start earlier in 2026.

“I am disappointed with the update because this work is a priority and it should be taken as a priority.

“I’m disappointed that they haven’t committed to an immediate date for starting,” Cllr Fitzmaurice said.

Local Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane said the replacement of the mains was essential “and must be completed on time this year”.

She was informed by Uisce Éireann in a recent update that the replacement works in Cloonfad was at the design stage and the project was planned to go to “construction this year”.

“The ongoing situation of water on, water off, is not sustainable, it affects the entire community and leaves people and households in a very difficult position,” she said.

The issue was also raised in the Seanad recently by Senator Gareth Scahill.

The Castlerea senator pointed out that in an 18-month period, there had been more than 60 outages in the village of Cloonfad. “As public representatives, we are fighting to get the money that is needed allocated.

“That is what it comes down to in brass tacks,” he said.