More water restrictions ‘likely’ amid ongoing drought

Irish Water has said discussions are ongoing with local authorities in the Greater Dublin Area – including Kildare and Wicklow – regarding the introduction of water restrictions.
A spokesperson said no final decision has been made but it is "looking likely" that restrictions could be introduced early next week.
Irish Water said it is trying to achieve a balancing act between the impact on households and businesses and also to see how much water can be saved through nighttime restrictions.
Twenty-one schemes around the country are already experiencing water restrictions, including parts of Athlone, Carlow and Kilkenny.
While the national hosepipe ban has made a difference to the situation the company said it is not enough and restrictions are likely to be introduced to some other parts of the country.
Yesterday, Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy said that unless there is significant rainfall so there is a risk of water shortages in September.
"The level of rain is nowhere near what we need to replenish our lakes and reservoirs", he said.
Minister Murphy said the hosepipe ban will continue throughout July and possibly into August.
He said: "There is a risk of shortages as we look ahead to September."
Met Éireann said a status yellow drought advisory remains in place across the country until Friday and is likely to be extended.

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