Dublin City Council is temporarily altering its street-washing operations for six weeks to conserve water while safeguarding public health and safety.

As Ireland's largest local authority, the council said the move supports citywide water conservation efforts in response to the current water conservation order issued by Uisce Eireann during the ongoing period of extreme heat.

Under the revised approach, crews will carry out low-pressure street cleaning in core, high-footfall locations, using up to 50% less water than standard operations.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daryl Barron, said: "Uisce Eireann has introduced this water restriction for a good reason and it is important that we all play our part in helping to conserve water whatever way we can. Everyone is expected to do their bit and the City Council is no different. Clearly this will have an affect on some operational areas but water is a vital resource and has to be protected during this ongoing spell of warm weather."

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The updated washing schedule will cover O'Connell Street, Henry Street, North Earl Street, Capel Street, Grafton Street, College Green, Parliament Street and Drury Street.

Prioritising public health and safety, the council will continue to respond to locations presenting public health concerns, heavily soiled pavements and problem sites requiring intervention, and racist and politically motivated graffiti as a priority.

Routine washing programmes in other areas will be suspended for the duration of the restriction, with services delivered on a reactive basis where required.

Supporting the strategy, Derek Kelly, Executive Manager for Environment, Climate & Urban Resilience, said: "We appreciate the public's understanding and cooperation as we adapt our operations to protect this vital resource during challenging conditions. Dublin City Council is committed to balancing responsible water conservation with essential street cleaning services, ensuring our community spaces remain hygienic and welcoming. Our commitment is to use water wisely while continuing our services to safeguard public health. We will continue to observe and iterate our approach as required, operating with reactive washing where required."

Once the water restrictions are lifted, Dublin City Council will roll out a comprehensive programme of street washing to restore cleanliness across all roads and public spaces within the restriction zones, reaffirming its commitment to high standards of public hygiene, environmental quality and efficient use of water services.