Hosepipe ban lifted two weeks earlier than planned

The hosepipe ban for 13 counties has been lifted with immediate effect, two weeks earlier than planned.

Uisce Éireann said the decision reflect "an increase in rainfall and water availability alongside the extraordinary efforts made by households, businesses, farms and communities across Ireland to reduce water use".

It said these efforts "helped to protect local water supplies during one of the hottest summers and driest July on record".

The nationwide Water Conservation Order was introduced in July following a prolonged period of dry weather and exceptionally high demand.

The order had been due to remain in place until September for Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow.

Uisce Éireann Asset Strategy Senior Manager, Mairéad Conlon thanked households for their support during the hosepipe ban.

"By cutting back on non-essential water use, people helped protect local supplies and maintain drinking water for the homes, farms, hospitals, vulnerable customers, and essential services that rely on it every day.

"While the Water Conservation Order is ending earlier than planned, we are encouraging everyone to continue using water wisely," she said.

Ms Conlon said rainfall in recent weeks has "improved the overall picture".

However, she said some areas, including parts of the Greater Dublin Area, Wexford and South Tipperary, "require more time to return to the levels you would usually see at this time of year".

"Continued careful use of water will help protect these local sources and support their recovery in the weeks ahead," she added.