Uisce Éireann being urged to “immediately” start works to replace “ancient” Cloonfad water main

A local councillor is urging Uisce Éireann to immediately start works to replace the “ancient mains” following a third significant burst in as many days.

The community of Cloonfad have already hit been with water shortages over recent days following two significant bursts on the main supplying the village.

Following major leaks on Tuesday, the main was repaired by Uisce Éireann crews by Wednesday evening but it has been hit with yet another burst.

“I previously got a written commitment from Irish Water that the mains from Lowberry to Cloonfad would be replaced in early 2026 and following a third bust over the last few days, I am calling on Irish Water to immediately start the works to replace the water main in Cloonfad,” said local Fianna Fail councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice.

Cllr Fitzmaurice has described the situation as “intolerable” for the people of Cloonfad, who have been hit with constant water outages over the last number of years due to an "ancient" main.

Uisce Éireann confirmed that crews are working to restore water supply to homes and businesses in Cloonfad, following a third significant burst on the water main supplying the village.

The burst is impacting supply to customers in Cloonfad, Granlahan South, and surrounding areas.

Crews are on site carrying out the necessary repairs with works expected to be complete by 3 p.m. this afternoon.

Uisce Éireann said it is conscious that this section of water main burst earlier this week and acknowledges the frustration of customers who have been affected by a second water outage this week. To support affected customers, alternative water supplies are in place at St. Patrick’s Church, Cloonfad, and Cloonfad soccer pitch, Lavallyroe.

Ger Greally of Uisce Éireann assured affected customers that crews are working quickly as possible to repair the burst and restore supply. “We understand the inconvenience and frustration caused by repeated unplanned outages, and we wish to thank impacted customers for their patience as we work to restore supply. Unfortunately, often when repairs are made to one section of water main, it can place increased pressure on a nearby section and lead to a burst and this is what has happened in Cloonfad this week. Once normal operations resume this afternoon, it will take several hours for the network to refill and supply to return to all customers particularly for those properties on higher ground or at the end of the network who may experience low pressure.

"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 said it is committed to keeping customers informed across multiple platforms 24/7 and are encouraging customers to engage through its website, via X @IWCare, and through its customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.

Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at www.water.ie