“Geographical coincidence” was the explanation given for why certain areas of Mullingar experienced more water rationing recently than others, according to county manager Dan McLoughlin.
Mr McLoughlin was responding to a question from Cllr Aidan Davitt, who wanted to know why Lakepoint estate had to endure more water turn-offs and shortages than other parts of Mullingar town.
The county manager said there has been no targeting of specific areas.
“There is no targeting. It depends on gravitational pull. Certain estates did have more outages, but it is just geographical coincidence,” he explained, adding that the council was putting in place measures, such as increasing reservoir capacity, to ensure there is not a repeat of recent water shortages.
“The conditions were extraordinary, and human behaviour also played a part,” he said, alluding to reports of residents leaving taps running overnight for fear of pipes freezing.
“We can look to the fact that this was a national problem. We have apologised and have looked to see how we can improve.”
Mr McLoughlin again paid tribute to council staff who worked tirelessly to tackle the problems caused by the winter’s adverse weather conditions.
