West Clare residents assured water is safe to drink despite 'presence of algae'
Algae found in Ennistymon Public Water Supply
Uisce Éireann has issued a statement assuring customers that "chemical and biological results on the Ennistymon Public Water Supply demonstrate compliance with legislative requirements".
Residents had reported issues with the taste and smell of the water in recent weeks in the west Clare area.
Specialist testing of the lake source water for the Ennistymon Public Water Supply has indicated the presence of algae in the raw water source, which has contributed to the recent taste and odour issues reported by residents on the supply.
However, Uisce Éireann have issued assurances that this algae "is not harmful to human health".
"Protecting public health is a top priority for Uisce Éireann and we would like to advise customers that the water supply on the Ennistymon Public Water Supply is compliant with regulatory standards and is safe to drink," Uisce Éireann said in a statement released on Thursday Spetember 12.
"Both the HSE and EPA are regularly updated regarding the issue and the HSE has also been consulted for their health advice during periods of increased taste and odour reports."
Regional Asset Operations Lead Darragh Conneely said that the state body can confirm that "following rigorous testing and analysis that the water continues to fully meet chemical and microbiological regulatory standards and is safe to drink."
While the taste and odour can be unpleasant, drinking water with an earthy or musty taste is typically harmless, the statement Uisce Éireann continued.
"The taste and odour may be compounded due to changes in raw water characteristics caused by seasonal changes."
"Where Uisce Éireann becomes aware of any taste and odour issue, a monitoring programme for those compounds associated with taste and odour issues commences to ensure that there is no impact on public health."
Customers experiencing taste or odour issues can find out more information by visiting water.ie/help/water-quality/unusual-taste-or-smell
Uisce Éireann advises customers not to drink discoloured water. In the event of discolouration, running the tap for several minutes will usually restore water to a clear colour.
The water is safe to drink once running clear. If the issue remains unresolved, we encourage customers to contact us directly.
Uisce Éireann is committed to keeping customers informed across multiple platforms 24/7 and we encourage customers to engage with us through our website, X channels @IWCare and @IrishWater, on Facebook and LinkedIn and through our customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.
Uisce Éireann has launched a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at water.ie.
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