Uisce Éireann has announced a significant improvement to drinking water security in West Donegal following the removal of two major supplies from the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Remedial Action List (RAL).

The Na Gleannta-Ard an Rátha (Glenties–Ardara) and Leitir Mhic an Bhaird (Lettermacaward) supplies are no longer classified as vulnerable following a combined €30 million investment.

The works involved extensive modernisation of both treatment facilities to ensure the delivery of clean and reliable water to more than 6,500 local customers. At the Na Gleannta-Ard an Rátha Water Treatment Plant, an €18.3 million project delivered by Veolia Water Ireland Limited introduced advanced nano-filtration membrane technology. This upgrade, which benefits 3,650 people, also included the installation of new pressure filter tanks and modernized monitoring systems to address long-standing water quality risks.

In Leitir Mhic an Bhaird, a €12 million investment delivered by EPS has secured the supply for over 3,000 customers across areas including Port Nua, Ros Beag, and An Machaire. The project featured a major plant upgrade, the expansion of raw water storage via the Derk More Lough source, and the construction of a new connecting water main.

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Uisce Éireann's Programme Manager Ian Walsh said: "Removing this supply from the RAL shows how effective these essential upgrades have been and reaffirms our commitment to delivering safe, clean drinking water to homes and businesses for generations to come. This project demonstrates how innovative treatment technologies can be successfully deployed in even the most challenging locations. The introduction of a nano-filtration membrane process at Na Gleannta-Ard an Rátha provides a robust solution to long-standing water quality risks and provides an improved and more resilient water supply for the community."

John McElwaine, Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann, said: "It has been a great privilege to deliver this critical project for 3,000 people across West Donegal. With the works now complete this project ensures the continued delivery of safe, clean drinking water to homes and businesses in Leitir Mhic an Bhaird and the surrounding areas."

Thomas Gibbons, Regional Drinking Water Compliance Manager at Uisce Éireann, added: "At Uisce Éireann we are fully committed to identifying and addressing risks to drinking water quality. Our key focus remains the protection of public health through the provision of safe, clean and secure water supplies for local communities."

Pat Collins, Drinking Water Safety Plan Audit Manager at Uisce Éireann, noted: "These critical upgrades in West Donegal ensure ongoing compliance with drinking water regulations and significantly reduces the risk of future water quality issues."