Concern over repeated water outages in Athlone

BUSINESSES in Athlone who are concerned about water outages and work on the Church Street project are being urged to join the Living Environment group, which is part of Destination Athlone.
That was the advice from Athlone Municipal District Manager Pat Keating who told a meeting of concerned traders that he didn't see the need for the establishment of new agencies.
“I'd urge the businesses to link better with Living Environment,” he said. “I don't think you need to set up new agencies. Let's use the agencies that are there.”
The advice was supported by the Mayor of Athlone, Councillor Aengus O'Rourke. “I'd suggest people join the Living Environment group, anyone who isn't already involved,” he said.
At the meeting, a lot of concern was expressed in relation to water outages, with business people saying the lack of advance notice was a major problem.
Mr Keating told the meeting that there was some confusion because council vans were being sent out, but in fact they were being sent out by Irish Water. “They are working for Irish Water,” he said.
The Mayor of Athlone, Councillor Aengus O'Rourke, said he understood people were gravely concerned about water issues.
He said that Irish Water is required to inform people about outages, but pointed out that that was not the case with emergencies like burst pipes.

FOR FULL COVERAGE OF THE MEETING, CHECK OUT THIS WEEK'S WESTMEATH INDEPENDENT, OUT NOW.