Killsellagh Public Water Supply is safe to drink
Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section
Uisce Éireann can confirm that specialist results received following ongoing testing of the Killsellagh Public Water Supply has indicated the presence of low levels of a naturally occurring substance called Geosmin.
While Geosmin can result in some people detecting an earthy, musty smell and taste from their drinking water, it is not harmful to human health.
Geosmin is a naturally occurring organic substance produced by algae found in lakes, rivers, streams, and reservoirs. It can be smelled at very low concentrations. Seasonal increases in naturally occurring algae or bacteria in water sources can cause a rise in Geosmin levels.
Earlier this month, Uisce Éireann was made aware of taste and odour issues which are affecting some customers served by the Killsellagh Public Water Supply, and we assure impacted customers that this issue is being treated as a priority. Uisce Éireann has increased testing and analysis of the supply.
Uisce Éireann can confirm that drinking water microbiological and chemical analysis carried out on water produced at our water treatment plants serving County Sligo is compliant with drinking water regulations. Water produced at our treatment plants is tested daily in conjunction with extensive monitoring in the distribution network and is safe to drink.
Speaking about the detection of Geosmin in the drinking water, Uisce Éireann’s Kevin Love said: "Our primary focus is the protection of public health, and we would like to reassure customers that the water coming from the drinking water plants serving County Sligo is safe to drink. We understand the concerns raised by some customers in relation to the smell or taste of their drinking water. While the smell and taste can be unpleasant for some customers, Geosmin is not toxic or harmful and the water remains safe to drink. As a precaution, we have increased testing on this supply and are keeping the situation under close review."
Further information on Geosmin and drinking water quality can be found on our dedicated drinking water quality section.
Customers with queries or concerns about the quality of their drinking water should contact the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 or via X @IWCare.
Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment. To find out more visit www.water.ie.
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Uisce Éireann continues to carry out testing on the Killsellagh Public Water Supply and assures customers that the water continues to meet regulatory standards and is safe to drink.
Earlier this month, Uisce Éireann was made aware of taste and odour issues which are affecting some customers served by the Killsellagh supply, and we assure impacted customers that this issue is being treated as a priority.
To date, the most recent chemical and biological results demonstrate compliance with legislative requirements. Investigations into the source of the taste and odour issues are ongoing.
Uisce Éireann’s James Melvin assured customers that the water is safe to drink, and that regular testing is being carried out on the supply to ensure that the water is fully complaint with regulations.
“Where Uisce Éireann becomes aware of any taste and odour issues, a monitoring programme for those compounds associated with taste and odour issues commences to ensure that there is no impact on public health,” said James.
“Protecting public health is a top priority for Uisce Éireann and we would like to advise customers on the Killsellagh Public Water Supply that the water is compliant with regulatory standards and is safe to drink once it is running clear.”
Uisce Éireann advises customers not to drink discoloured water. In the event of discolouration, running the tap for several minutes will usually restore water to a clear colour. The water is safe to drink once running clear. If the issue remains unresolved, we encourage customers to contact us directly.
The Uisce Éireann customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries or concerns.
Customers experiencing taste or odour issues can find out more information by visiting our Water Quality page.