Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South-West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy McGrath for raising this issue. On the back of him raising it here today, I will speak to the water directorate within my Department, which has a very close working relationship with Uisce Éireann, to ensure any measures that are being taken to get rid of this water discolouration are prioritised and taken as fast as possible. The Deputy will be well aware that approximately €100 million has been invested in water infrastructure in the city over the past number of years but there is an issue with the old cast iron pipes. There are about 600 km of pipes in the city. About 50% to 60% of them are old cast iron pipes. My understanding of the crux of the issue is that when repairs are being done or when upgrades are being done to the pipework, the old sediment in the cast iron is essentially being knocked into the water supply and we get this awful discolouration. We have seen it highlighted. It is something the Deputy has highlighted at every possible occasion. It is simply not good enough and it should not continue. There is also the drinking water issue. There is a health aspect to this as well. Uisce Éireann has a specific dedicated unit within the city to deal with this issue. Approximately €1.6 million has been allocated to the enhanced processes at the Lee Road plant, which it is hoped will address the issue.

There has been constant mains rehabilitation in the city. The issue is being prioritised but on the back of this and the Deputy raising the matter, I will again urge the directorate of my Department to reach out to Uisce Éireann and ensure that whatever measures can be taken are taken quickly. This issue has been going on for too long and should not continue. I appreciate the Deputy raising it.