‘Do Not Consume’ notice remains in place
The initial test results that prompted the 'Do Not Consume' notice showed a reading of Aluminium at 560 µg /L and Manganese of 785 µg /L. Last week water leaving the plant was analysed as having reduced to Aluminium at 139 µg/L and Manganese at 213 µg/L.
A 'Do Not Consume' notice for Mountainlodge Group Water Scheme remains in place, despite an improvement in the overall quality of the water. Manganese and Aluminium levels have now fallen below the recommended levels, however the local authority says the restrictions on the supply remain in place until the issue has been stabilised.
Cavan County Council issued the following statement on Tuesday morning: “The latest results we are in receipt of are for Monday, July 13 are: Manganese 44.6µg/l and Aluminium 90.6µg/l, (Drinking Water Regulations standards are 50 and 200 respectively). Please note the Do Not Consume notice continues to remain in place on Mountainlodge GWS.”
The initial test results that prompted the 'Do Not Consume' notice showed a reading of Aluminium at 560 µg /L and Manganese of 785 µg /L. Last week water leaving the plant was analysed as having reduced to Aluminium at 139 µg/L and Manganese at 213 µg/L.
The prolonged dry spell at the start of the Summer played a role in raising the levels of Manganese and Aluminium in the supply to the Mountainlodge Group Water Scheme.
Cavan County Council issued the 'Do Not Consume' notice to homes and businesses who subscribe to the Mountainlodge Group Water Scheme two weeks ago. The areas affected are Laragh, Tunnyduff, parts of Poles, and Mountainlodge.
Eddie Martin, secretary of the Group Water scheme, previously told the Celt of the actions taken: “High levels of Manganese and Aluminium were detected in the water by the Health Service Executive, so it was shut down for the time being.”
The local authority made water tankers available at Laragh and Tunnyduff national schools.
Cavan County Council carries out regulatory sampling of Group Water Schemes annually. Following receipt of results on Thursday July 9 and, in consultation with HSE, the 'Do Not Consume' notice was issued.
The local authority is not aware of any similar significant issues encountered by other Group Water Supplies related to dry spell of weather in May and June. Usual seasonal issues with such things as algal blooms may have been encountered.
Patrons are advised to use an alternative safe source of drinking water (bottled water) for drinking, preparing drinks made with water, cooking food and for food preparation. The 'Do Not Consume' notice covers brushing of teeth and/or gargling and making ice and people are advised that water from the hot tap of kitchen or bathroom sinks is not safe to drink.