As Uisce Éireann introduces hosepipe restrictions, Kells community representative Cormac Corr PC has argued that the conversation around water management must go beyond asking ordinary households to reduce consumption. Corr said there was an “elephant in the room” that needed to be addressed, the growing demand placed on infrastructure by large-scale users, including data centres.
“People understand that during periods of pressure everyone has a role to play. Households, businesses and communities all have a responsibility to use water wisely. But responsibility must be shared fairly,” Corr said.
“The reality is that Ireland should not be finding itself in a position where families are being asked to drastically change their behaviour while serious questions remain about how we manage our infrastructure, how we measure major water users, and how efficiently we protect the resources we already have.”
Corr pointed to concerns around the availability of national data on water consumption by data centres. “Data centres are an important part of Ireland’s modern economy, and nobody is suggesting that investment should simply be turned away. But if we are going to continue developing as a country, then we need the infrastructure and transparency to match that growth.”
“The elephant in the room is that we still do not have a complete national picture of water consumption by the data centre sector. What we do know is that its consumption is considerable and is a cause for concern.” Before asking people to accept restrictions, government and the relevant authorities should have a full understanding of where our water is being used and what demands are being placed on the system.”
The Kells representative also highlighted the issue of water lost through leakage before it reaches consumers, an issue acknowledged by Uisce Éireann. The utility has reported that massive quantities of treated water are lost through leaks within the public network.
“We cannot ignore the fact that a substantial amount of treated water is lost through ageing infrastructure. That is not an argument against conservation, conservation is important, but it is an argument for reform, investment and better management.”
Corr said the solution was not about creating divisions between communities and industry, but ensuring that every sector contributes to protecting Ireland’s water future. “I am not asking for unfair blame. I am just calling for accountability. We need proper figures, proper planning and proper investment. If large-scale industries are part of our economy, then they must be part of the solution.”
“I am calling on local and national representatives to seek clarity from Uisce Éireann on water usage across major commercial users, while also demanding a renewed focus on reducing leaks, upgrading infrastructure and ensuring that our water system is fit for the country we live in today.”
