15 April 2009

Water In Focus As Taps 'Run Clean'

Tap water in Northern Ireland is now safe to drink.

Following a series of tests - believed to be three different sets of examinations - a Lough Neagh treatment plant, which supplies 220,000 households, has been given the 'green light' having been found with no contamination.

Northern Ireland Water said that a directive to boil drinking water was lifted on Tuesday evening following the third and conclusive test.

Originally, NI Water issued a 'boil water' warning after a potential problem was spotted at Dunore Point treatment plant at Lough Neagh.

However, a second test by an independent laboratory found no contamination but the boil notice remained until the third test was completed.

Today, the company "welcomed confirmation that there was no safety issue with drinking water supplies" and thanked its customers for their patience over the last 24 hours.

The news comes just days after water was also in focus in Belfast with discussions held to improve flood defence measures in east Belfast.

A delegation led by Robin Newton, the local DUP MLA, met the NI Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew and discussed efforts to prevent recurring flooding in the district.

The Minister met the delegation to discuss flooding at Castlereagh in the summer of 2008.

"Last year's flooding at Loop Bridge was an act of nature that none of us could have foreseen," said the Minister.

"I appreciate that doesn't provide much comfort to those who were worst affected by it and we are now hopefully moving towards some new measures to help avoid such instances in the future.

"My officials at the Rivers Agency are presently working closely with the East Belfast Partnership to examine the potential for incorporating flood alleviation proposals into the forthcoming Connswater Community 'Greenway' environmental project.

"The two organisations are also examining the integration of environmental and flood alleviation proposals, thereby providing an improved environment for the local community," she said.

However, flood alleviation proposals are at an early stage and will be subject to the necessary approvals and availability of funding.

"Any final proposals will be put out to consultation and I would encourage everyone in the local area to respond when we reach that stage," she concluded.

(BMcC/KMcA)