Optimize Existing Infrastructure
Rather than investing billions in a new pipeline, we can leverage existing resources more efficiently.
Repurpose Poulaphuca at Blessington reservoir and their immense storage capacity (covering an area of 22 sq kilometres and a capacity of 149 billion litres). Using this reservoir for water supply rather than electricity generation will help meet Dublin's needs without the exorbitant cost of the Shannon Pipeline.
Harness local resources close to Dublin. Using untapped water sources, such as the River Boyne, Liffey, Slaney, and Barrow, and groundwater resources is an opportunity for sustainable water supply. This can reduce reliance on distant sources like the Shannon and ensure long-term water security for Dublin.
These are readily available solutions to storing peak water demand that doesn’t require draining the River Shannon.
Prioritize Regional Development
Dublin's growth should not come at the expense of the Midlands and the Shannon ecosystem. The council should focus on creating a balanced regional development, instead of using all of our resources on Dublin-centred projects.
Fostering economic growth in regional cities like Limerick and the Mid West can reduce the pressure on Dublin's infrastructure and ensure a more equitable distribution of resources.
Unlock Cost-Effective Solutions
While the Shannon Pipeline may seem like a quick fix, it overlooks fundamental issues like the Victorian-era pipelines. The 900km of Victorian-era cast iron pipelines in Dublin urgently require renewal.
According to Uisce Eireann, renewing 9000 km of the entire distribution system in Dublin is estimated to cost €5 billion. However, according to the original report on the issue, the problem only revolves around the pipes that cannot be repaired - costing only 500 million to replace on a pro-rata basis.
By prioritizing pipe replacement and leak reduction initiatives, we can modernize Dublin's water infrastructure and minimize waste without resorting to costly mega-projects. By involving the public in the decision-making process, we can ensure that taxpayer money is spent wisely and that the chosen solution aligns with the community's needs and values.
Embrace innovative solutions
The Midlands, particularly Mullingar and Tullamore, can be efficiently supplied by the Shannon through a relatively short pipeline to Mullingar, which would then restore the Brosna to serve Tullamore. These areas are already within the Shannon catchment.
Additionally, efforts to partially restore Lough Ennell could provide valuable storage for summer floods.
