‘We might as well be paying water charges’

The ongoing water crisis in Cork is an unacceptable financial burden on households a Cork City Councillor has said.

Solidarity Cllr Brian McCarthy said the problem of discoloured water is still a major issue after more than 18 months of water-related complaints from across the city.

He said the issue is causing real hardship for working people and their families. “People have real and understandable concerns about the safety of their water. Many are being forced to pay significant amounts for bottled water because they are scared for their health and the health of their children,” said Cllr McCarthy. Poor water quality is also affecting appliances continued the councillor, with many residents having been forced to replace kettles, washing machines, and showers, all ruined by the discoloured water.

He said: “There’s a cost-of-living crisis as it is without this on top of it. Ten years ago, we fought tooth and nail against the introduction of water charges, and we won an important victory but look at what’s happening now. Expensive bottled water, replacing appliances and clothes – we might as well be paying water charges for the amount this is costing people.”

In response to the crisis, Uisce Éireann has established a water quality taskforce dedicated to improving water quality in Cork city. The company said it is progressing plans to minimise discolouration with increased sampling set to commence along with enhanced flushing programmes and further mains replacement work.

The taskforce’s priority is to minimise the instances of discolouration for the people of Cork city and ensure they do not exceed the typical frequency expected when operating a water network of this age, a statement on the Uisce Éireann website read.

“Discolouration has existed in Cork city for some time; indeed, it has been a feature of the Cork city network at low levels long before the establishment of Irish Water (now Uisce Éireann),” the statement added.