Over 17,000 people across County Longford are affected by a boil water notice this morning.
The areas affected include all customers in Longford Town, Newtown Forbes, Balinalee, part of Edgeworthstown, part of Drumlish, part of Killashee and surrounding areas.
The notice is being issued because the cryptosporidium barrier at a local treatment plant was compromised following a deterioration in the raw water quality of the lake source.
A boil water notice has been issued for thousands of people in County Longford.
The Public is being reminded that water must be boiled for:
Drinking; Drinks made with water; Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating; Brushing of teeth; Making of ice -
Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth.
John Gavin, Asset Operations Lead, Irish Water, says the utility will monitor the supply over the coming week and will seek to lift the notice in consultation with the HSE as quickly as it is safe to do so.
He has also confirmed "Works are underway at the Lough Forbes plant to increase its capacity, provide increased resilience, and safeguard the supply for the future".
An updated map of areas affected is expected to be published by Irish Water later today.
