Night time water restrictions on Inis Oírr have been lifted as of today, due to recent rain improving the reserve levels on the island.
Water restrictions were first imposed on the Aran Islands in late April to due an increase in demand and low rainfall stretching supplies.
The restrictions were lifted on Inis Mór and Inis Meain in July after a spike in rain, but have persisted for an additional month on Inis Oírr until today.
Tim O’Connor of Irish Water said that restrictions were necessary over the summer, especially during May and June, to ensure a “continuous daily supply” for businesses and residents.
“Thankfully water reserves on the island have recovered following the rainfall of the past six weeks and are sufficient to ensure a continuous water supply into the autumn.”
“We would like to thank residents and visitors to the island for their conservation efforts during the drought and we would also like to remind customers that it is important to continue to follow the HSE guidance on hand washing.”
There was a massive increase in domestic water demand during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This was caused by the fact that people were spending more time at home during the initial lockdown, and due to the hygiene advice of the HSE for more frequent handwashing.
