Uisce Éireann Implements National Hosepipe Ban Until August 26

Uisce Éireann has implemented a national hosepipe ban across all 26 counties of Ireland, effective from July 24 until August 26, 2026. The measure prohibits domestic users from watering gardens, washing cars with hosepipes, or filling swimming pools, though the use of hand-held containers remains permitted. The utility warns that groundwater sources are stressed and treated-water reservoirs need to recover following prolonged drought and regional rainfall disparities, specifically in the south and east where soil-moisture deficits have exceeded 80mm.

While Met Éireann forecasts upcoming rain, the utility maintains that intensified demand continues to pressure supplies. This crisis occurs amid systemic infrastructure failures; the European Commission reported that Ireland lost 36% of its treated water through leakage in 2024. Consequently, the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities applied a €20 million financial adjustment to the utility for failing to meet leakage-reduction targets.

To address long-term supply pressures caused by population growth and climate change, Uisce Éireann has proposed the Water Supply Project for the Eastern and Midlands Region. This plan involves constructing a 172km pipeline to transport water from the River Shannon in County Tipperary to a reservoir in County Dublin.