Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne, has called for a long-term solution to be found for Dublin's water problems.

Deputy Byrne was speaking as householders and businesses in the city faced a weekend of water shortages and restrictions. Deputy Byrne added that a proposal for a new reservoir in the midlands, which would serve the Dublin region, should be expedited as soon as possible.

She said: "I know that officials and experts within Dublin City Council are working very hard to solve this latest water crisis, but that comes as little comfort to householders and businesses who are struggling to cope with water restrictions every evening. Water shortages not only cause a significant inconvenience for families, they also have a serious economic impact on businesses in the city.

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"We need a long-term solution to Dublin's water problems. A series of jobs announcements in recent weeks have proven that the city is on the right economic track, but we must ensure we have an adequate water supply if we want to continue to attract international investors, especially in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors.

"The establishment of Irish Water will help to improve the system, but I believe we also need to look at other long-term solutions.

"There are plans to build a giant reservoir at Garryhinch in Co. Laois, which would serve the Dublin region. However, it's estimated that this project could take seven to ten years to complete. I urge the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan TD, to consider whether this project can be fast-tracked."

(CD/JP)