AROUND 1,500 HOUSEHOLDS in west Limerick remain without water today after a volume of oil entered the River Deel and contaminated the water supply.
Limerick County Council has said that the extent of the pollution is “worse than initially feared” and has reintroduced water restrictions. The oil came from a commercial property in the area.
Homes in towns and villages in Askeaton, Foynes, Shanagolden, Creeves and surrounding areas in west Limerick have had their water supply cut off.
Water tankers have been in place since this morning to provide an alternative supply for residents.
The Shannon Estuary Water Supply Treatment Plant has been shut down which is restricting supply on industrial and domestic users, the Council said.
“The Council is taking all possible steps to minimise the impact of the pollution incident on the River,” said Gerry Behan, Director of Services for Limerick County Council.
Behan said that foul play is not believed to have caused the incident.
“The Environmental Section of Limerick County Council is investigating the matter, but at this stage we do not believe the spillage was intentional,” he said.
Eight tankers are in place across west Limerick to serve the affected communities. Five are in Askeaton, two are in Foynes and one is in Shanagolden. It is not yet known how long the water restrictions will last.
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