‘Critical condition’ water main and poor supply issues top agenda for Duleek meeting

A PUBLIC meeting is being held this week in Duleek to address ongoing water disruption that is plaguing homes and businesses in the village.

It comes as Uisce Éireann confirmed that the water main between Staleen and Duleek is 'in a critical condition' and has been recommended for replacement and referred for full design in 2025.

Darren O'Rourke TD says that while this is positive, instead of asking for patience, Uisce Éireann must ensure the project is funded, prioritised and fast-tracked.

"In their response to me, Uisce Éireann say the 300mm AC main between Duleek and Staleen Reservoir (approximately 2.5 km) has been flagged by Meath Operations as being in critical condition, and they have recommended considering its replacement. They go on to say the project has been approved for full design in 2025 and has been handed over to the Regional Contractor to progress the design. Uisce Éireann asks for patience, as the design process involves several elements that need to be developed.

"While this development is welcome, instead of asking for patience, Uisce Éireann should guarantee that the project will be fully funded, prioritised, and fast-tracked to address the ongoing risks to water supply and infrastructure in Duleek, Donore and surrounds. Local businesses and householders need that commitment. They need clear timelines and reassurance.

"I would encourage people to attend next Thursday's public meeting on this issue, to maintain pressure on Uisce Éireann to deliver a swift resolution.

"Community involvement is crucial to ensure this project gets the priority it deserves.

"Uisce Éireann has apologised for inconvenience caused by recent burst pipes and assured stakeholders of their commitment to resolving the issue. However, as far as I am concerned, actions must match words."

Meanwhile Independent Cllr Geraldine Keogan who has organised the public meeting this week says action needs to be taken urgently as residents and business owners have suffered for too long.

"This has been a serious issue for many years and it has gone beyond on a joke," said Cllr Keogan.

"When I bring this up at the local area meeting Meath County Council don't want to know because they say it is an Uisce Eireann problem.

"Personally I feel that is Uisce Eireann had to compensate businesses for lack of earnings they wouldn't be long about fixing the problem.

"Something needs to be done and it needs to be done now.

"It has gone beyond talking, action needs to be taken urgently."

The meeting will take place at 8.30pm on Thursday 27th March in the Duleek Community Facility.