Clendennen calls for action over ongoing disruptions to Birr water supply

Today (Wednesday), during Questions on Policy and Legislation in Dáil Éireann , Fine Gael TD for Offaly, John Clendennen called on the Taoiseach to commit to an effectiveness review of the delivery, management, oversight and accountability of our essential semi-state utility providers including Uisce Éireann in light of repeated water supply disruptions in Birr.

This comes following yet further water supply disruptions across Birr and surrounding areas since last weekend. This is the latest in a trail of outages throughout 2026 that has left residents and businesses without a water supply, often for a prolonged period and with little notice.

“This is just not good enough,“ said Deputy Clendennen following his statement in the Chamber.

“Birr Water Treatment Plant has benefited from an investment of over €10million, with works completed only three years ago, in 2023.

“This year alone, we have had numerous water outages leaving Uisce Éireann customers repeatedly without water, for a variety of reasons”

Deputy Clendennen said that he has been in regular contact with Uisce Éireann in order to get clarity on the cause and duration of the disruptions.

“My understanding is that the supply outage over the weekend was due to an issue at the water treatment plant which was resolved on Monday but this was then followed by a number of additional outages in the area in recent days, both planned and unplanned.

“Planned works such as those associated with leakage reduction which require opening up roads are necessary in order to reinforce the network. That being said, we need to see better management of outages in general and better communication where the unplanned outages occur on top of or on either side of planned works.

“We have a situation in Birr and surrounding areas this week that is understandably causing much frustration amongst residents and businesses. I share that frustration. Uisce Éireann must do better.

“I will continue to monitor the situation and engage with all relevant stakeholders. I would encourage anyone experiencing a water supply disruption or outage to continue to log the issues directly with Uisce Éireann or contact my office.”