Firefighters Rushed Water Tanker from Midleton Amid Carrigaline Blaze

UPDATE: Firefighters battled a major blaze in Carrigaline, Co Cork, earlier today, prompting an urgent request for a water tanker from Midleton due to critically low water pressure. The incident, which occurred at Hillview Estate, raised serious concerns over the adequacy of the local water supply system.

Authorities confirmed that crews on the ground reported unprecedented low water pressure, forcing them to seek additional resources to control the fire. Fine Gael councillor Una McCarthy witnessed the extensive damage to two houses and expressed her alarm over the situation. She stated, “This caused significant concern to local residents,” highlighting the potential disaster that could have unfolded if not for the “tremendous work” of the fire brigade.

The situation was dire as strong winds exacerbated the fire’s spread, endangering more properties in the area. Councillor Jack White echoed these concerns, revealing that firefighters from both local and Cork City stations noted the alarming pressure levels. He emphasized that this incident raises broader questions about the entire water supply system in Carrigaline, a town that has seen its population swell to around 20,000.

Uisce Éireann is currently investigating the low pressure issue, with a team collaborating with the Cork County Fire Service to assess the situation. In correspondence reviewed by the Irish Examiner, the utility stated they are also analyzing all available monitoring data for the network and promised to provide a comprehensive response once their investigations are complete.

Councillor White criticized the lack of investment in the water supply infrastructure, revealing that there has been no upgrades in over 10 years. With ongoing planning applications for nearly 400 new houses in the Kilmoney area, he fears that the existing supply line, which serves Hillview Estate, will be unable to handle the increased demand.

“We need to ensure that the supply in the town is adequate,” White warned, emphasizing that Uisce Éireann’s claims of sufficient capacity do not align with the realities observed during the fire.

Councillor McCarthy urged the utility to not only address the low-pressure crisis but also conduct a thorough review of all hydrants in the area to guarantee they are “adequate and fully fit for purpose.”

As Uisce Éireann investigates, residents are left anxious about their safety and the reliability of water resources in Carrigaline. This incident underscores the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to protect lives and property in rapidly growing communities.

Residents and officials alike await Uisce Éireann’s findings and response, with the hope that immediate action will be taken to prevent future emergencies.