Uisce Éireann has announced that hosepipe bans in Meath, Donegal and Westmeath will officially lapse on Monday following months of water conservation efforts by local communities.

The Water Conservation Orders affecting the Kells/Oldcastle, Mullingar, and Milford regional water supplies will be lifted, marking a significant step forward after a summer of unprecedented pressure on resources.

Residents in Meath, Westmeath, and Donegal are being commended for their cooperation and commitment to reducing water usage and reporting leaks throughout the spring and summer. According to Uisce Éireann, these collective efforts played a vital role in safeguarding local supplies during a period of low rainfall and high demand.

Michael Cunniffe, Operations Manager for Uisce Éireann, praised the people of the Kells and Oldcastle area for their dedication. He noted that while Lough Bane has begun to recharge thanks to recent rainfall, full recovery will depend on sustained precipitation over the coming months. He urged the public to continue using water wisely, emphasising that small changes in daily habits can have a lasting impact.

In Westmeath, Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical Operations Manager, echoed the call for continued vigilance. She highlighted the mild recharge of Lough Owel and stressed the importance of maintaining momentum in conservation efforts. Callery also encouraged residents to report leaks, which remain a critical part of protecting the water network.

Donegal’s Lake Colmcille, which supplies the Milford region, remains significantly below normal levels despite recent rainfall. Damien O’Sullivan, Water Operations Manager for Donegal, explained that abstraction from the lake had been reduced by 40 percent and additional resources were deployed to address leaks. He thanked the communities of Milford, Kerrykeel, and Ramelton for their support and urged them to stay proactive in conserving water.

While the lifting of restrictions is welcome news, Uisce Éireann is reminding all households to continue practicing good water habits. The organisation has provided guidance on simple ways to reduce consumption, such as turning off taps while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, and using watering cans instead of hoses for gardening. These measures not only help preserve water but also contribute to lower energy bills.