Water cuts in Portlaoise after mains burst

A BURST water main is causing supply disruption for homes and businesses in Portlaoise today.

Uisce Éireann crews are carrying out repairs, after a contractor struck a water main on the town's Dublin Road. It is expected to be 10pm tonight before repairs are completed.

The utility said that customers and businesses in Portlaoise may experience disruptions to their water supply, following ‘a third party strike’ on a water main.

In a statement after 3pm, Uisce Éireann said: ‘Our crews are on site carrying out repairs and every effort is being made to restore normal service as quickly and safely as possible.’ 

James Joyce of Uisce Éireann added: “We understand how inconvenient an unexpected water outage can be. Our main priority is fixing this burst and returning a normal supply to all our customers.

“We really appreciate everyone in the community bearing with us while our crews get water back to homes and businesses."

Once repairs have been completed by about 10pm, water supplies will return gradually over the following hours. Customers in higher-lying areas or at the ends of the network may experience a longer wait, while the water network refills.

The company said: ‘To keep our crews and the public safe while repairs are underway, traffic management measures will be in place and clearly signposted. We thank local residents and road users for their cooperation.

‘Supporting customers, especially those who may be more vulnerable during service interruptions, remains a priority. Registered vulnerable customers receive direct communications from Uisce Éireann for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours.’ 

Customers can receive local updates by signing up to Uisce Éireann’s free text alert service, using their Eircode and mobile number.

Updates are also available through Uisce Éireann’s website, social media channels and customer care team, which is available 24 hours a day on 1800 278 278.