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RSA Marks National Child Safety Day

Vision Zero

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is marking National Child Safety Day tomorrow, Friday with a nationwide series of events and initiatives focused on protecting Ireland’s youngest and most vulnerable road users.

The day forms part of Irish Road Safety Week, which runs from Monday, 6 October to Sunday, 12 October. Throughout the week, the RSA’s Nationwide Road Safety Education Service has been travelling the country — from crèches to college campuses — bringing road safety lessons, activities, and resources to thousands of children, parents, and educators.

During the week, the RSA has distributed over 40,000 high-visibility vests and Beep Beep Day packs to pre-schools across Ireland. The packs, provided free of charge each year, help introduce pre-schoolers to essential road safety habits in a fun and engaging way. Activities teach children to hold hands, stop, look and listen before crossing, and include the Safe Cross Code song, posters, and storybooks featuring Simon and Friends.

Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the RSA, said: “National Child Safety Day is about ensuring every child in Ireland learns how to stay safe on our roads — and that every adult takes responsibility for protecting them. The tragic reality is that too many children are still being killed or seriously injured on Irish roads. Every reflective vest worn, every correctly fitted car seat, and every conversation about road safety can save a young life.”

The focus on child safety comes against a stark backdrop. According to the recently-published RSA Child Casualties Report 2020-2024, 39 children aged 0-15 lost their lives and 584 were seriously injured on Irish roads during this five-year period. Almost half (49%) of these young victims were pedestrians, while one in seven were injured while travelling to or from school.

Children aged 10-15 years are at particular risk, accounting for two-thirds of serious injuries and almost 70% of fatalities among child road users.

The RSA’s Check It Fits service — a free, nationwide car seat safety initiative — is also active throughout the week. With up to four out of five child car seats found to be incorrectly fitted, the service provides on-site safety checks and demonstrations for parents and guardians. A Check It Fits event will take place at Tony Kealy’s in Coolock, Dublin, on Friday to coincide with National Child Safety Day.

Meanwhile, the Seatbelt Sheriff is visiting primary schools in Louth and Monaghan on Friday. The sheriff teaches children how to cross the road safely, where it is safest to do so in both urban and rural areas, and how to stay visible and protected while cycling. With his signature sheriff hat and friendly, approachable style, he captures the attention of students aged 6 to 13, making serious topics like seatbelt use and passenger safety memorable and meaningful.

StreetSmart has been visiting primary schools in Meath this week – it brings road safety to life in a fun way for young children. Using a pretend streetscape mat and props, children are invited to carry out everyday road safety tasks.

Elsewhere, the RSA Shuttle — a mobile interactive road safety unit — has been engaging with communities in Galway and Sligo.

At third level, the RSA’s College Road Safety Education Programme continues its national tour, visiting the University of Galway and ATU Connemara this week. The programme brings immersive, hands-on road safety experiences to students, tackling issues such as drink and drug driving, fatigue, distraction, and seatbelt use.

Mr. Waide added: “From toddlers to teenagers, we’re working to instil safe habits early and often. Road safety is not just a message — it’s a lifelong skill. National Child Safety Day reminds us that our collective efforts can and do make a difference.”

Phlean Spóirt agus Gníomhaíochta Coirp do Phort Láirge

Phlean Spóirt agus Gníomhaíochta Coirp do Phort Láirge

Tá Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, i gcomhar le Comhpháirtíocht Spóirt Phort Láirge, ag forbairt Phlean Spóirt agus Gníomhaíochta Coirp do Phort Láirge agus TÁ DO CHABHAIR AG TEASTÁIL!

Táimid ag tabhairt cuireadh duitse plean nua spreagúil a mhúnlú chun rannpháirtíocht i spórt, gníomhaíocht choirp agus áineas a spreagadh agus chun cabhrú le Port Láirge níos cuimsithí, níos gníomhaí agus níos sláintiúla a mhúnlú.

Tá an suirbhé oscailte do gach duine atá ina gcónaí i gContae Phort Láirge. Scan an cód QR nó cliceáil ar an nasc thíos chun an suirbhé a oireann do do riachtanais a fháil agus tógaimis Port Láirge níos gníomhaí le chéile!

Local Sports & Physical Activity Plan – Online Surveys

Local Sports & Physical Activity Plan - Online Surveys

Waterford City & County Council, in association with Waterford Sports Partnership, is developing a Sports and Physical Activity Plan for Waterford and WE NEED YOU!

We are inviting you to shape an exciting new plan to encourage participation in sport, physical activity and recreation and help shape a more inclusive, active and healthier Waterford

The survey is open to all County Waterford residents. Scan the QR code or click the link below to get the survey which suits your needs and let’s build a more active Waterford together!

 

Waterford Schools take the Schools Litter Challenge

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Séamus Ryan recently launched the Waterford Schools Litter Challenge at the Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota dealership on the Cork Road.

The challenge, now in its fifth year, is sponsored by Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota, in association with Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Chamber.

Over the course of the next six weeks, secondary school students from across the city and county will be out litter-picking in their localities. The initiative not only helps to keep our streets and parks litter free, but it also highlights the detrimental effect litter, particularly single-use plastics, has on the environment.

Mayor Ryan said, “I am delighted to launch the fifth Schools Litter Challenge with our good friend and sponsor, Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota.

“The success of the challenge is immeasurable.  Over the last four year, and I don’t expect this year to be any different, students from schools throughout the city and county have removed bag after bag of litter.  I want to commend them and their teachers for their dedication and commitment in helping Waterford become litter-free.

“Their enthusiasm is infectious and if this challenge spurs one person to clean up their rubbish after them, the message is unequivocal…small changes have big impacts on the environment.

“The support of local businesses can never be underestimated, and I would like to extend my gratitude to all the team at Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota for their support in once again helping Waterford retain its title of Ireland’s Cleanest City.”

For the challenge, Waterford City and County Council is providing bags, gloves, litter pickers and high visibility vests to all schools, with Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota sponsoring the €1,500 prize for the winning school.

Welcoming the return of the challenge, Tom Murphy, Chairman of TMCS said, “This year’s challenge is particularly special as we celebrate half a decade of collaboration and positive change. We are thrilled by the increasing enthusiasm we see from the schools taking part and the invaluable support we get from our business partners Toyota Ireland, Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Chamber.

“At the heart of the Schools Litter Challenge lies the belief that every individual has a role to play in protecting our environment and strengthening our sense of community. By taking part in this challenge, students are not only learning about the detrimental effects of littering but are also developing a deep appreciation for civic engagement and teamwork,” Mr. Murphy added.

Michael Oporowicz, Area Sales Manager, Toyota Ireland said, “Toyota is delighted to once again support this amazing initiative.

“Tom Murphy has been an advocate of this program since very beginning and is a staunch advocate for Waterford, its people and its presentation. Toyota Ireland is looking forward to working with the schools and Waterford City and County Council to realise our aim in working towards a sustainable, environmentally friendly future for generations to come.”

Present at the launch was Waterpark College teacher, Deirdre Cahill, overall winners in 2024. Speaking of last year’s challenge, Deirdre said, “The Schools Litter Challenge was enthusiastically embraced by all the students last year and we are looking forward to partaking again this year.  There was no doubt that our students invested time, energy and commitment to the task, and we were delighted to see that dedication rewarded.

“Initiatives such as the Schools Litter Challenge are a great way for students to get involved and realise the beneficial impacts of cleaner, greener communities and localities.”

Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “We got a great reaction from the eleven schools from across the city and county who undertook the challenge last year.  The enthusiasm and dedication from the students were contagious, and while Waterpark College emerged as overall winner, the efforts of all the schools did not go unnoticed as there was an apparent reduction in litter and debris in their designated areas.”

The Schools Litter Challenge runs until December 10th, with the overall winners announced by Mayor Murphy at a reception in City Hall on December 17th, 2025.

-ends-

 

Images Free to use – Noel Browne

3. Pictured at the launch of the 2025 Schools Litter Challenge at Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota with the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, were Transition Year students from Waterpark College; Niamh Barry, Thomas Darcy-Burke, Holly O’Callaghan, Chloe Caulfield and Gracemarie Conway; Tom Murphy Chair, TMCS; Gerald Hurley, CEO Waterford Chamber; Ella Ryan Environmental Awareness Officer, Waterford City and County Council and Waterpark College teacher, Deirdre Cahill. 

4. Pictured at the launch of the 2025 Schools Litter Challenge at Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota with the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan were Waterpark College Transition Year students, Chloe Caulfield and Thomas Darcy-Burke; Tom Murphy Chair TMCS and Gerald Hurley, Waterford Chamber.

5,  Transition Year students from Waterpark College, Thomas Darcy-Burke, Niamh Barry, Holly O’Callaghan and Gracemarie Conway Chloe Caulfield, are pictured at the launch of the 2025 Schools Anti-Litter campaign in Tom Murphy Car Sales, Waterpark College were last year’s winners.

6. Transition Year students from Waterpark College, Thomas Darcy-Burke, Niamh Barry, Holly O’Callaghan and Gracemarie Conway, Chloe Caulfield, along with their teacher, Deirdre Cahill are pictured at the launch of the 2025 Schools Litter Challenge at Tom Murphy Car Sales.

 

Road Safety Alert – Orange and Yellow Weather Warnings Issued for Storm Amy

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The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads over the next few days as Met Eireann has issued Orange and Yellow Weather Warnings as Storm Amy approaches.

There is an Orange Rainfall Warning for Kerry from 6am-8pm Thursday when there may be heavy spells of rain. Flooding can be expected along with very difficult travelling conditions.

There is a Yellow Rainfall Warning for Cavan, Donegal, Munster, Connacht and Longford from 6am-8pm when there will be widespread rain, heavy at times, and there is potential for localised flooding and difficult travelling conditions.

There is a Yellow Wind Warning for Ireland from noon to midnight on Friday where Storm Amy will bring strong to near gale force and gusty south-westerly winds. There is potential for difficult travelling conditions, debris, loose objects becoming displaced and the chance of some fallen trees is possible.

Road users in areas affected by the Orange Warning are recommended to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

The following advice is being given to road users on foot of the weather warnings.

  • Drivers need to slow down and allow a greater braking distance between themselves and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions. This is especially important on high-speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where there is increased danger of aquaplaning.
  • Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles, as they generate a considerable amount of spray, which reduces your visibility. Hold back to where you can see their mirrors.
  • If the road ahead is flooded, choose another route. Do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think. The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible.
  • Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána.
  • After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance – this helps to dry the brakes.
  • Be Safe. Be Seen. Drive with dipped headlights at all times to ensure that you are visible and that you can see other road users.
  • Beware of objects being blown out onto the road. Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch out for falling / fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road.
  • Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds
  • Drivers should allow extra space between themselves and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists as they may be blown off course by strong winds.
  • Drive with dipped headlights at all times.

Advice to Pedestrians, Cyclists, and motorcyclists:

  • Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.
  • Cyclists should ensure that they and their bike are visible to other road users by investing in a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and by wearing clothes that help you be seen on your bike. Consider wearing high visibility material.
  • Take extra care when crossing the road or cycling in extremely windy conditions, as a sudden gust of wind could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
  • Be Safe. Be Seen. Visibility and light are reduced in poor weather conditions. Keep safe by making sure you can be seen. Wear bright clothing and consider wearing high visibility material.

For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see severe weather advice on the RSA website or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages.

Please also see the severe weather warning videos created in collaboration with Teresa Mannion here.

See advice for driving on flooded roads here and some advice on driving in strong winds here.

For more weather updates, visit Met Eireann’s website: www.met.ie

ENDS

Stride to School initiative launched at St. Augustine’s College, Dungarvan

Students were out in force in Dungarvan on Wednesday 24th September 2025 for the launch of the Stride to School initiative at St Augustine’s College – an effort to encourage walking and cycling as fun, energising and sustainable ways for students to travel to and from school.

The initiative, supported by Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Sports Partnership, is part of a wider push to promote active travel across the county.

The Dungarvan students have welcomed Stride to School as a chance to socialise with friends, enjoy fresh air and exercise before class, and help reduce traffic congestion around the school.

Gary Morahan, Deputy Principal at St Augustine’s College, highlighted the social, environmental and health benefits of the initiative: “Stride to School is a fantastic opportunity for our students to mix with each other on the way to school. It’s very good for their physical health and mental wellbeing. As they walk to school each morning, they can chat and interact with each other. It’s also very good for the environment and helps to reduce traffic congestion around our school.”

Eamonn Cashin, teacher at St Augustine’s College, said the school community is “absolutely delighted” to start Stride to School: “The students are walking to school in their hi vis vests, they are safe, healthy, the sun is shining. It’s a fantastic initiative and I would love to see more schools in the area get behind it.”

Dylan White, Active Travel Communications and Behavioural Change Officer at Waterford City and County Council, commended the school for leading the way in encouraging healthier, more sustainable daily travel routines for its students: “St Augustine’s College has shown great leadership in getting Stride to School up and running. It’s starting to build momentum and will continue to grow over the coming months. We look forward to working with schools across Waterford to launch Stride to School and support them in changing travel behaviours.”

Jordan Kelly, Community Sports Development Officer with Waterford Sports Partnership, praised the students’ energy and commitment: “It’s fantastic to see the students walk and cycle to school at St Augustine’s College. It’s great for them to be able to get their exercise in before starting school, which will benefit them greatly throughout the day.”

If your school would like more information on how to join the Stride to School movement, email activetravel@waterfordcouncil.ie.

ENDS

Waterford City and County Council clears the way for Make Way Day 2025

Mayor of Waterford Metropolitan District, Cllr. Adam Wyse and Jemma Jacob, Road Safety Officer, Waterford City and County Council.

Every corner of Ireland will be put to the test for basic access issues this Friday, September 26th when the Make Way Day campaign returns.

Campaign organisers, the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI), in collaboration with Local Authorities and voluntary sectors, are highlighting the issues faced by people with disabilities in the public spaces we share.

DFI’s survey revealed that the most reoccurring obstacles are:

  • Cars parked on footpaths
  • Bins causing obstruction on footpaths
  • Bikes illegally parked

By highlighting the obstacles people with disabilities face day-to-day when accessing public spaces, paths and walkways, the campaign reminds the public that we all have the power to make one change that will have a big impact.

Mayor of Waterford Metropolitan District, Cllr. Adam Wyse welcomed the return of Make Way Day, saying, “Make Way Day is an initiative that not only highlights the everyday challenges people with disabilities, mobility issues or visual impairments face, but it also acts as a powerful reminder about how we all can play our part in improving road safety for all users.

“If there is an action that “blocks the way”, then we all need to stop, reconsider and change our behaviour. Cars parked on footpaths and kerbs, wheelie-bins discarded in the middle of paths, overhanging trees and branches and illegally chained bikes pose challenges to those with disabilities. We all share public spaces, and we are all entitled to share them equally and safely.”

The backbone of the Make Way Day campaign is people with disabilities. An online tool empowers them to survey their area for obstacles and rate its accessibility. It will once again give them the chance to share their frustrations by posting photos of obstacles to social platforms with the hashtag #MakeWayDay25

The tool is available at www.makewayday.com, is easy to use and download and will be circulated widely on the campaign’s social media platforms.

According to the Disability Federation of Ireland, “Access is the most basic of all disability rights. The public footpaths are for everyone, and we can all agree on that. In a wider context, this one day focuses the mind on people with disabilities, their lives, and needs.”

 

Check the Register – Ireland’s Presidential Election 2025

Are you ready to vote in Ireland’s Presidential Election on October 24th, 2025 ?

🗳️ In this first episode of our new ‘Quick Take series’, staff member Lisa reminds you to check the voter register and make sure your details are correct ahead of polling day. Checking the register is quick, easy, and ensures you can have your say. Visit www.checktheregister.ie today to confirm your entry on the electoral register.

Stay tuned for more Quick Take videos with clear updates on elections, civic engagement, and community information in Ireland.

Waterford City and County Council advises of restrictions on slurry spreading

Tractor Spreading Slurry

Due to the Status Yellow rain warning issued by Met Éireann for Waterford, slurry spreading must not be undertaken until after the rain has passed.  

The Status Yellow Rain warning is valid from 2pm Friday, September 19th until midnight (12am) Sunday, September 21st.

Under the European Union (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2022, organic and chemical fertilisers or soiled water shall not be applied to land when heavy rain is forecast within 48 hours.

Farmers are also reminded that the last day for slurry spreading this season is Tuesday, September 30th.

Cyclists Complete ‘Giant Steps to Viking Shores’ Journey

The “Giant Steps to Viking Shores” cycle has triumphantly concluded as dedicated cyclists returned to Waterford, having completed a remarkable journey to promote home-grown Irish produce and healthy living. The initiative was supported by Healthy Waterford, a project hosted by the Waterford City and County Community Section. Healthy Waterford’s mission is to promote and support community wellbeing and supports and runs a multitude of collaborations with organisations throughout Waterford and beyond.

Participants pedalled their way across a challenging route, raising awareness for sustainable food choices and the importance of physical well-being. Upon their return to Waterford, the cyclists received a warm welcome from the community and local representatives.

Deputy Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. John Pratt, commended the efforts of all involved:

“It’s a proud moment to welcome back the cyclists who took on this fantastic challenge all the way from the Giant’s Causeway to Waterford. Their dedication not only highlights the strength of our community spirit but also shines a light on the importance of supporting local, home-grown Irish produce. Waterford is proud to stand behind initiatives like this that promote health, sustainability, and local pride.”

A key figure behind the event was Colman Power, one of the lead organisers and a well-known advocate for health, horticulture and nutrition. A proud member of the Kilmeaden Community and Ballyduff Lower GAA Club, Colman’s grassroots connection to farmers, suppliers and advocates played a vital role in rallying support and inspiring others to take part. Colman is also a member of the Healthy Waterford Network, a group for professionals in the field of health and well-being.

Colman said: “We had a great event to wrap up our cycle in Waterford. Local producers such as Barefoot farm gave us wonderful insights about locally grown produce done in a sustainable manner. We would like to thank all the other producers around Waterford who supported us on our last day and the many who did the same on our journey form the Giants Causeway”

The campaign was supported thanks to the backing of Healthy Waterford, whose ongoing commitment to promoting community well-being continues to make a tangible difference in local initiatives like this one.

As the cyclists return to well-earned rest, their efforts leave behind not just tire tracks, but a lasting message about the power of community, the value of Irish produce, and the importance of healthy living.

If you are a practitioner in the field of Health and Wellbeing and would like to find out more about the network contact Eoin Morrissey via eoinmorrissey@waterfordcouncil.ie

ENDS

Find AED Locations Across Waterford City and County

ARC GIS map

Waterford City and County Council has updated an interactive map to search for closest AED (Automated External Defibrillator) to your location.

The GIS (Geographical Information Systems) map contains the Eircode locations of the 71 AEDs across Waterford city, Dungarvan, Tramore and Cheekpoint.

An AED is a user-friendly, life-saving device that can be the difference between life and death in a cardiac emergency.  The AED location list is an invaluable resource for the public to familiarise themselves with the locations of AEDs that could potentially save a life.

In the event of an emergency, dial 999 or 112.

To find an AED closest to you, click Waterford City and County AED Locator

Cuir do thuairim in iúl agus Seiceáil Clár na dToghthóirí

Tá Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, mar aon le hÚdaráis Áitiúla na tíre, ag impí ar gach duine féachaint ar checktheregister.ie.

Fiú má tá tú cláraithe cheana féin chun vótáil, is mithid anois do shonraí a sheiceáil agus iad a dheimhniú nó a nuashonrú trí d’Uimhir UPSP, eirchód, Dáta Breithe, uimhir theileafóin agus seoladh ríomhphoist a sholáthar.

Trí fhaisnéis a dheimhniú nó a nuashonrú, cuireann na sonraí seo ar chumas na n-údarás áitiúil an fhaisnéis a sholáthraíonn gach duine a chros-seiceáil agus a dheimhniú, ag cur le sláine an phróisis.

Tá Méara Chathair agus Chontae Phort Láirge, An Clr. Séamus Ryan ag moladh do gach duine i bPort Láirge clár na dtoghthóirí a sheiceáil, ag rá, “Má bhíonn do chuid sonraí ceart ar Chlár na dToghthóirí, cinntítear go gcloistear do ghuth.

“Is próiseas tapaidh agus éasca é, ach tá impleachtaí ollmhóra aige toisc go dtugann sé deis do gach duine atá i dteideal vóta a chaitheamh tionchar ceart a bheith acu maidir le todhchaí na hÉireann a mhúnlú.”

Dúirt Ivan Grimes, Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí, Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge: “Cinnteoidh an próiseas seo gur féidir le gach duine atá i dteideal vóta a chaitheamh a chinntiú go mbeidh bunús lena vóta.

“Ní mór do gach duine cuairt a thabhairt ar an suíomh agus seiceáil go bhfuil a gcuid sonraí cothrom le dáta. Dóibh siúd a d’athraigh seoladh nó a bhog go dtí toghlimistéar nua, cinnteoidh ionchur a UPSP, eirchód agus dáta breithe cruinneas chlár na dtoghthóirí. Éascaíonn úsáid UPSPanna seiceáil céannachta, mar sin ní bheidh ar fhormhór na ndaoine cuairt a thabhairt ar stáisiún na nGardaí chun foirmeacha a fhianú.”

Dúirt an tUasal Grimes freisin, “Beidh daoine 16 bliana d’aois agus 17 mbliana d’aois in ann réamhchlárú chun vótáil ar an suíomh chomh maith. Ansan, nuair a shroicfidh siad 18 mbliana d’aois, cuirfear leis an gclár iad go huathoibríoch. Ina theannta sin, is féidir iad siúd a bhfuil cónaí orthu i dtithe altranais nó in institiúidí cúraim sláinte a chur le liosta na vótálaithe speisialta, más rud é, mar gheall ar mhíchumas nó breoiteacht, nach bhfuil siad in ann dul chuig stáisiún vótála chun vótáil.”

Cé gur féidir athruithe agus nuashonruithe a dhéanamh trí chuairt a thabhairt ar www.checktheregister.ie, tá Foireann Toghchórais Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge ar fáil chun cabhrú le haon cheisteanna nó chun cúnamh a thabhairt chun do chuid faisnéise a chlárú nó a nuashonrú.

Is féidir leat ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig franchise@waterfordcouncil.ie, glaoigh ar 0818 10 20 20 nó glaoigh isteach go pearsanta go dtí Seirbhísí Toghchórais ag Halla na Cathrach agus Sráid Nua Bailey sa chathair, nó sna hOifigí Cathartha ag Cé Dáibhéid i nDún Garbhán.

Have your say and Check the Register

Have your say and Check the Register

Waterford City and County Council, along with the country’s Local Authorities, is encouraging everyone to checktheregister.ie.

Even if you’re already registered to vote, now is the time to check and either confirm or update your details by providing your PPSN, Eircode, Date of Birth, telephone number and email address.

By confirming or updating information, adding these details allows local authorities to cross-check and confirm the information provided by each person, adding to the integrity of the process.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, is encouraging all people of Waterford to check the register, saying, “Ensuring your details are correct on the Electoral Registrar ensures that that your voice is heard.

“It’s a quick and easy process, but it has huge implications as it allows everyone who is eligible to vote to rightfully have a say in shaping Ireland’s future.”

Ivan Grimes, Director of Services, Waterford City and County Council added, “This process will ensure that everyone who is eligible to vote can make their vote matter.

“All people need to do is visit the site and check that their details are up to date.  For those who have changed address or moved to a new electoral area, an input of their PPNS, Eircode, date of birth will ensure the accuracy of the electoral register. The use of PPSNs facilitate identity checking, so now most people won’t have to visit a Garda station to have forms witnessed.”

Mr. Grimes added, “16- and 17-year-olds will also be able to pre-register to vote on the site. Once they turn 18, they will be automatically added to the register. Additionally, there is the option for those who live in nursing homes or healthcare institutions to be added to the special voters list, if due to a disability or illness, are unable to go to a polling station to vote.”

While changes and updates can be made by visiting www.checktheregister.ie, Waterford City and County Council’s Franchise team is available to help with any queries or provide assistance in registering or updating your information.

You can email franchise@waterfordcouncil.ie, call 0818 10 20 20 or call in person to Franchise services at City Hall and Bailey’s New Street in the city, or the Civic Offices at Davitt’s Quay in Dungarvan.

 

Do Not Consume Notice Issued for Ballyogarty Public Water Supply

Friday, 12 September 2025:  Following consultation with the Health Service Executive (HSE), Uisce Éireann has issued a Do Not Consume Notice for all customers on the Ballyogarty Water Supply.

This notice has been issued to protect the health of approximately 576 customers due to elevated levels of naturally occurring Arsenic in the water.

Please note this is not a Boil Water Notice. Boiling the water is not a suitable measure to make the water safe to consume. It is especially important that mains drinking water is not given to bottle-fed infants.

The notice applies to all areas supplied by Ballyogarty Public Water Supply including Ballyogarty, Graigueshoneen, Cooltubrid East and areas of Kilmacthomas including Union Road, Hillside Crescent, Hillside Close and Cruachán View.

A map of the Ballyogarty Water Supply is available on www.water.ie

James Joyce of Uisce Éireann has assured affected customers that all efforts are being made to lift the notice as soon as possible.

“Uisce Éireann understands the impact a Do Not Consume Notice has on the community, and we can assure impacted customers that we are working to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible,” said James.

This water should not be used for

  • Drinking
  • Drinks made with water
  • Food preparation, washing or cooking of food,
  • Brushing of teeth
  • Making of ice
  • Children under 12 months old should not drink this water
  • Children under 12 months old should not drink this water. This water should not be used for making up infant formula for bottle-fed infants. An alternative source of water should be used. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated.
  • If bottled water is used to make up infant formula, it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way
  • A ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.
  • Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink
  • Caution should be taken when bathing infants to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water
  • Discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers, and filtered water in fridges

What can you use water for?

  • The water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing, flushing toilets, laundry and washing of utensils.
  • Uisce Éireann will continue to liaise with the Health Service Executive with a view to lifting this drinking water restriction as soon as practicable.

Alternative Water Supplies will be in place later this evening at Kilmacthomas GAA Club. The alternative water supply will be replenished daily. Customers are reminded to use their own containers when taking water from the tanker and to boil water before consumption as a precautionary measure.

Uisce Éireann is committed to keeping customers informed across multiple platforms 24/7 and we encourage customers to engage with us through our website, X channels @IWCare and @IrishWater, on Facebook and LinkedIn and through our customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.

Uisce Éireann also has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at www.water.ie