Irish Water has revealed it will take up to two years to upgrade the public water supply system for Lettermacaward.
The company says it fully understands the frustrations of the local public at the ongoing problems with the local water supply in the area.
However, in an update to county councillor Micheal mac Giolla Easbuig, Irish Water said it is working tirelessly to resolve the issues.
It said that following freezing temperatures throughout December and subsequent increased demand (which continued into the New Year), operational difficulties were encountered at the Lettermacaward treatment plant and are continuing to be managed.
The authority explained “As a direct result of changing raw water characteristics in December due to extremely low air and water temperatures, operational difficulties were encountered at the treatment plant.
“This was exacerbated by an increase demand for water at the same time, that required night-time restrictions to be implemented.
“Although night-time restrictions have not been required since late December, works are continuing to manage daytime supply in Lettermacaward and surrounding areas at this time.
“This is being managed by Uisce Éireann in partnership with Donegal County Council and contractors working at the site. As air temperatures have increased, the volume of water being treated at the plant has increased and operations are ongoing to ensure that the progress made to date continues until normal operating processes resume.”
The statement from Irish Water added “Uisce Éireann understands the community’s frustration and can ensure everyone that we are working tirelessly to resolve the issues. We would like to thank customers for their efforts to conserve water and check for leaks since December and again apologise for the inconvenience restrictions caused.
“In parallel Uisce Éireann is investing €12 million in upgrading the Lettermacaward Water Treatment Plant which will support economic, social development and tourism in the area while reducing the risk of supply interruptions and ensuring compliance with EU Drinking Water Regulations.
“EPS commenced work at the site in 2022 and will work on behalf of Uisce Éireann to deliver this project. Works on the project are expected to take approximately 24 months to complete.
“The project will involve an upgrade to the existing water treatment plant at the Lettermacaward site as well as increasing water storage on site. The construction of a new water main from Derkmore Lough to the water treatment plant is also another important element of this project. Improvements to the network are also being undertaken with the construction of two network booster pumping stations which will serve the Portnoo, Rosbeg, Drimlaghdrid, Derrydruel and Maghery areas.”
