Uisce Éireann addresses brown water issues in Cork city, investing in solutions and improvements, while prioritizing water safety.
They invested €1.6 million in Cork city’s water. The money went to the Lee Road plant for manganese reduction. This plant supplies water to 70% of Cork homes. They aim to keep manganese within safe levels. Manganese is needed in our diets. But, high levels over time can harm your brain. The HSE says it affects the nervous system, too.
In 2024, a third of Lee Road samples had too much manganese. Uisce Éireann sped up the process. Last year, they found high levels in Cork’s water source. Prime Time reported safety breaches went unreported to people.
They are flushing the water system. This reduces brown tap water occurrences. Sediments inside city pipes will be flushed out soon. Brian O’Leary spoke at the Lee Road plant. He said they want high water quality standards.
They aim to fix discoloration issues. The team wants an efficient water system. He apologized for the ongoing discoloration. He knows it greatly impacts residents. There is no easy solution. But, they are making progress. They want a solution quickly.
The water meets drinking standards once clear. It is safe to drink, he said. He asks people not to drink brown water. They should report discoloration to the customer team. North Cork areas are improving. Investments in water treatment help. They are no longer on the EPA’s vulnerable water supplies list.