Committed to addressing water concerns in Dunboyne

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

Uisce Éireann is committed to addressing water supply issues that have been impacting customers in the Dunboyne area of Co. Meath.  The water main servicing Dunboyne was built a number of decades ago and is susceptible to bursts in sections due a number of local factors, including the aging network and a growing population. 

Uisce Éireann recognies the importance of upgrading this water main to address the water supply issues impacting the community and is committed to providing a reliable water supply.  

Uisce Éireann has scheduled a new watermain to supply water to the greater Dunboyne area.  The M3 Parkway project is being delivered to support existing and future developments within the community. It will improve the capacity of the existing water network in the area, while improving performance and reducing demands on the current network.  This project is being delivered as part of Uisce Éireann’s Growth and Development Programme.  Uisce Éireann is currently progressing detailed designs of this water project, with planned construction in Q2 2026. 

Uisce Éireann acknowledges the inconvenience caused by unplanned outages and interruptions.  Expert crews are deployed immediately to ensure water is restored to customers as soon as possible. 

In the interim, we are also reviewing short-term options for the area to improve operational efficiencies and reduce the impact on local communities.  

Uisce Éireann will continue to engage directly with elected representatives and keep the community engaged as we progress works in the area. 
Uisce Éireann’s Michael Cunniffe, said: “We are fully committed to addressing the concerns of Dunboyne residents and ensuring the highest standards of water supply. This is a priority issue for Uisce Éireann and we are working hard to ensure we reduce interruptions to supply and provide a safe and secure water supply to the Dunboyne community”

“Uisce Éireann apologises to those people who experience interruptions and acknowledge the impact on customers and communities in the area. We are making progress and are committed to finding a solution as quickly as possible.”

As Uisce Éireann continues to closely monitor supplies, it is urging people to be mindful of water use at home, on farms and in businesses to help conserve water and protect supplies. Simple steps can make a big difference and alleviate the pressure on water supplies.

Simple actions, such as taking a shorter shower, placing a basin in the sink and fixing leaking taps can all make a significant impact. Uisce Éireann has developed an easy-to-use conservation calculator to help people find out how much water they are saving and what they can do to save even more. Check it out at the conservation page.

This is also a good time for people to spot any underground leaks outside their home or business. Signs of such leaks may include persistent moisture in areas of the lawn or driveway. Uisce Éireann’s first fix free scheme provides for a free leak repair on private property where such a leak is identified. For information on the scheme, along with lots of easy-to-follow water-saving tips, visit water.ie. To report leaks on the public network, or for more information, the Uisce Éireann helpdesk is available 24/7 at 1800 278 278. 

Key Tips to help you conserve water 

• Leak free: Check that your home is leak free. Check for running overflows and fix any dripping taps, cisterns or pipes
• Don’t let the tap run: Brushing your teeth with the tap running can use up to a staggering 6 litres per minute. Brushing your teeth with the tap off will use a more modest 1 litre of water
• Shower vs. Bath: The average bath uses 80 litres of water compared to an average shower using 49 litres in seven minutes. Switch your bath to a shower for a massive water saving
• Less time: With the average shower using 7 litres of water per minute by turning your five-minute shower into four minutes, you could save up to 7 litres of water per day!
• Fully loaded: Always ensure your dishwasher and washing machines are fully loaded. A modern washing machine uses approximately 65 litres of water per cycle while a dishwasher uses 20 litres. By ensuring they are fully loaded, not only will you conserve water, but you will also reduce your energy bills
• Don’t flush it all away: A third of all water used in the home is flushed down the toilet. Some larger cisterns can continue to work effectively with a smaller flush. Place a displacement device into the cistern (out of the way of moving parts) to save water 

Water Conservation Tips for Business  

• Conduct a water audit to see where savings can be made.  
• Appoint water stewards who will champion water conservation.  
• Invest in water efficient devices and appliances such as dual flush toilets, mixer taps and low flow showers.
• Raise awareness amongst customers and employees with water conservation notices & signage.