Uisce Éireann has restored a permanent water supply to Oileán Ghabhla and lifted the Boil Water Notice, in place since April 2026, following consultation with the Health Service Executive (HSE) and a programme of water quality monitoring.

The utility confirmed that repairs to the damaged subsea pipeline serving the island have been completed, reinstating a reliable drinking water source for the community.

The repair required a complex marine engineering operation involving specialist contractors and technical experts. Detailed underwater inspections and surveys identified the affected section before specialist vessels and diving teams were deployed to carry out the fix. The pipeline was then tested and recommissioned, restoring the island’s permanent supply.

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After the supply was reinstated, extensive sampling and testing confirmed the water met all required drinking water standards. In line with HSE advice, the notice has been lifted and customers can now use tap water as normal for drinking, food preparation and brushing their teeth.

The return of a permanent supply is a significant boost for daily life on Oileán Ghabhla, supporting households, local businesses and tourism, and helping to sustain a vibrant island community into the future.