Whitegate Boil Water Notice Lifted After 21 Months

After 21 months of boiling their water, approximately 10,000 residents in East Cork can finally turn on their taps without worry as Uisce Éireann lifts the long-standing Boil Water Notice for the Whitegate Public Water Supply with immediate effect.

The notice, which was first issued on 18 October 2023, has been one of the longest-running water quality alerts in Cork's recent history. Residents can now resume normal use of their water supply following satisfactory sampling results and consultation with the Health Service Executive.

The prolonged notice was necessary due to increased turbidity and deterioration of the raw water source, which put the drinking water disinfection process at risk. To address the immediate concerns, Uisce Éireann completed works to replace the pressure vessel and associated infrastructure at the Dower Spring abstraction point.

Niall O'Riordan, Uisce Éireann's Operations Manager:

"Uisce Éireann's primary focus remains the protection of public health and we worked with our stakeholders to lift the notice once safe to do so. We acknowledge the frustration felt by the local community and we hope this will provide a welcome reprieve."

While today's news brings relief, Uisce Éireann has cautioned that the Whitegate supply remains at high risk of future boil water notices until major upgrade works are completed. The utility is investing €22 million in upgrading the Whitegate Water Treatment Plant, with Glanua carrying out the works on their behalf.

The substantial upgrade project, due for completion in late 2026, aims to address the recurring water quality issues that have plagued East Cork residents for years. The existing treatment plant struggles to cope with seasonal changes in Irish weather, which affect turbidity levels in the incoming raw water.

Until the new infrastructure is in place, residents are advised to stay alert for potential future notices. The upgraded facility promises to deliver a more secure and reliable water supply for the community, ending the cycle of frequent water quality alerts.

Customers can stay informed about water supply issues through multiple channels. Uisce Éireann operates a 24/7 customer helpline at 1800 278 278 and maintains active social media presence on X at @IWCare and @IrishWater. A free text alert service is also available at www.water.ie, where customers can register with their Eircode and mobile number.

The lifting of this notice marks a significant moment for Whitegate residents, who have shown remarkable patience during what has been an extraordinarily long period of water quality concerns. Local businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities will particularly welcome the return to normal water services after adapting their operations for nearly two years.