O’Shea Calls on Uisce Éireann to Address Water Supply Problems in Stuake and Firmount Areas of Donoughmore

Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD says poor communication from Uisce Éireann is adding to the difficulties for local residents, with schools and childcare facilities forced to close due to water supply problems.

Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD has called on Uisce Éireann to take immediate action to address ongoing water supply problems affecting the Stuake and Firmount areas of Donoughmore, following growing frustration among residents and local community facilities.

Deputy O’Shea said the situation has been particularly concerning for local schools and childcare facilities, which have had to close because of the difficulties with the water supply.

He said that, in addition to the disruption caused by the supply problems themselves, communication from Uisce Éireann has been very poor, leaving residents, schools and childcare providers without the clear and timely information they need to plan and make appropriate arrangements.

“People in Stuake and Firmount are understandably frustrated with the ongoing water supply difficulties. However, what is making an already difficult situation worse is the very poor communication from Uisce Éireann.

“Schools and childcare facilities have had to close because of the water supply problems. This creates significant disruption for children, parents, families and staff, many of whom have to make alternative arrangements at very short notice.

“Those responsible for running schools and childcare facilities need timely and accurate information so they can make informed decisions about their services. It is simply not good enough for local facilities and households to be left uncertain about when their water supply will be restored.

“Uisce Éireann has a responsibility not only to address the infrastructure problems but also to communicate properly with the communities affected.”

Deputy O’Shea said that while the efforts of local Uisce Éireann staff are acknowledged, a longer-term solution is required to ensure that the problems do not continue to arise.

“We appreciate the work undertaken by local staff who are doing their best to manage the situation and maintain the supply to affected households.

“However, there needs to be a clear commitment from Uisce Éireann management to address the underlying infrastructure issues. This cannot simply be a matter of responding to problems as they arise.

“We need a proper assessment of the network, including identifying any leakages, weaknesses in the distribution system or ageing water mains that may be contributing to the difficulties.”

Deputy O’Shea said that pressure management measures, including the installation of pressure-reducing valves where appropriate, and the replacement of problematic water mains should be considered as part of any remedial programme.

He is also calling on Uisce Éireann to improve its communication arrangements with affected communities, particularly schools, childcare providers and other essential community services.

“I am calling on Uisce Éireann to provide a clear update on what is causing these problems, what steps are being taken to restore a reliable supply and what measures will be put in place to prevent a recurrence.

“Importantly, there must be better communication with schools and childcare facilities. These services need to know what is happening and be given as much notice as possible if further interruptions are expected.

“The people of Stuake and Firmount deserve a reliable water supply and a much better standard of communication from Uisce Éireann.”

Deputy O’Shea confirmed that he will continue to raise the matter directly with Uisce Éireann and press for the necessary action to provide a lasting solution for the affected households and community facilities.

“Water is an essential service. Families, schools and childcare facilities should be able to depend on a consistent supply.

“I will continue to pursue this matter with Uisce Éireann until we see meaningful action, improved communication and a reliable water supply restored to the Stuake and Firmount communities.”