Essential overnight water restrictions have been announced for all water supplies from Cairnhill reservoir to allow the reservoir to re-fill.

The restrictions will be in place nightly from 11pm until 7am. While water will be turned back on at 7am each morning it may take up to 2 hours for supply to be fully restored to all areas fed by the Cairnhill reservoir.

A major leak on the network has caused the reservoir levels to drop significantly and it will take a number of days for levels to recover. Crews are working to carry out the repairs to the watermain as quickly and as safely as possible. The restrictions are necessary to allow reservoirs to refill so that essential daytime water supply can be maintained.

The areas which will be affected by these night-time restrictions are; Derrynacross; Cornafunshin; Kilmahon; Letterggeeragh; Lettergullion; Crowdrumman; Brocklagh; Monaduff; Gaigue; Derawley; Dooroc; Cartrongolan; Drumlish area (not village); Sliabh Cairbe Estate, Drumlish Village; Cairn Hill View Estate, Drumlish Village; Cairn Hill View estate; Lettergonnell; Carrickateane; Derreenavoggy; Aghamore Upper; Aghacordrinan; Molly; Gelshagh; Lislea; Aghakilmore; Soran Road; Drumnacooha; Esker South; Clontumpher; Aghaboy; Enybegs and surrounding areas.

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Irish Water and Longford County Council are asking all customers in the affected areas to be mindful of how they use water, but stressed that it remained important to continue to follow the HSE guidance on hand washing.

Irish Water said: "While handwashing remains a priority, simple water conservation efforts can have a big impact on reducing demand on the supply. Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and shaving can save up to 6 litres of water per minute. Taking a shower instead of a bath or using a watering can rather than a hose when gardening can also make a big difference in water use. We are also reminding people with responsibility for properties that are currently unoccupied to check for leaks and turn off water where it is not required.

"Irish Water is working at this time, with the local authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of drinking water and wastewater services."