Greater Dublin water supply 'on knife edge,' Uisce Éireann tells committee

The water supply for Ireland's Greater Dublin area, along with parts of Wicklow, Meath, and Kildare, is under severe strain, described by Uisce Éireann as being on a "knife edge."

According to the national water utility, current demand cannot be met sustainably without intervention. Uisce Éireann presented its plans to the Oireachtas Infrastructure Committee, outlining the Water Supply Project. This project aims to secure a new, climate-resilient water source by diverting a small portion of water from the River Shannon.

The proposal involves taking 2% of the annual flow from an existing reservoir at the Parteen Basin. This water would then be transported via a pipeline to the east to supplement the existing supply. Uisce Éireann estimates this new source will be capable of supporting up to 50% of the population in the affected regions.

The plan, submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála last December, has seen significant cooperation from landowners. Senior Project Manager Gary Gibson confirmed that 80% of landowners along the proposed pipeline route have formally agreed to the utility's compensation package. However, Aontú Deputy Peadar Toibín raised concerns about the remaining 20% who have not yet signed up.

Gibson acknowledged that some opposition exists, attributing non-participation partly to potential issues with proving land ownership. He stated that while Uisce Éireann possesses Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) powers, the utility hopes to avoid using them and secure voluntary agreements for all necessary land.

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We would use the CPO powers, if required, but he hoped it would not be necessary.