Hosepipe ban lifted in Offaly

Uisce Éireann has announced today (Wednesday) that the water conservation order, commonly referred to as a hosepipe ban, which was in place in Offaly since July is now being lifted with immediate effect.

The lifting of the ban in the Faithful County comes two weeks earlier than previously scheduled.

In a statement, Uisce Éireann said the decision to remove the restriction was prompted by an increase in "rainfall and water availability" as well as the "extraordinary efforts made by households, businesses, farms and communities across Ireland to reduce water use".

These efforts "helped to protect local water supplies during one of the hottest summers and driest July on record," the utility said.

A nationwide water conservation order was introduced in July following a prolonged period of dry weather and exceptionally high demand, which had placed significant pressure on public water supplies across the country.

In Offaly, the order had been due to remain in place until the end of September, but it is now being lifted for all remaining counties.

Some other counties in the Midlands, such as Westmeath, Longford and Roscommon had their water conservation orders lifted on August 26.

Uisce Éireann Asset Strategy Senior Manager, Mairead Conlon said: "We want to thank households and communities across Offaly for their support while the Water Conservation Order was in place.

"By cutting back on non-essential water use, people helped protect local supplies and maintain drinking water for the homes, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers and essential services that rely on it every day.

"While the Water Conservation Order is ending earlier than planned, we are encouraging everyone to continue using water wisely. The past few months have shown the value of being mindful about how we use water and the positive impact small actions can have when taken together.

"Continued water conservation will help support the recovery of local water sources and ensure water remains available when communities need it most," Ms Conlon added.