Irish Water has been ordered to carry out a full investigation into water quality issues in Clifden by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Residents of the town have, for the more than 12 months, been experiencing problems with the quality of their water supply. A report carried out by Tullyvogheen and Cúirt Cregg residents showed the presence of coliforms - a bacteria which indicates the presence of pathogenic organisms of fecal origin may be present in the water - and other contaminants.
Following a campaign by local residents and activist groups, and representations from Sinn Féin county councillor Tom Healy, the EPA ordered Irish Water to launch the investigation. In the meantime it is understood that clean drinking water is to be provided by means of tankers.
Cllr Healy also informed the HSE of the water situation but said “to date there has been no reply” from the executive.
Cllr Healy was critical of Irish Water, describing as a “worrying precedent” that the organisation “did not step up to its obligations on its own initiative” regarding this issue.
“Clean drinking water is a human right,” said Cllr Healy. “That the authorities involved have delayed the issue by referring responsibility to each other has caused no end of upset to Clifden residents. This is unacceptable. It is my hope this issue be concluded as quickly as possible.”
