Herbicide ingredient found in south Leitrim water supply

Pesticides have been discovered in a water supply in County Leitrim - but it does not represent a threat to public health.

Irish Water has confirmed that an exceedance for the pesticide MCPA has bene discovered in the south Leitrim Regional Water Supply Scheme which abstracts raw water from the Shannon River and which is vulnerable to runoff from land.

MCPA is commonly found in herbicide products used to control the growth of thistles, docks and rushes.

Irish Water is urging anyone using herbicides on land to consider the vulnerability of the water supplies to pesticide contamination and the importance of this supply to the local homes and businesses in the community.