Thousands Denied Compensation As Uisce Éireann Requires Direct Complaints

Thursday, 6 March 2025 09:01

By Martin Osborne

39 complaints were from customers who reported becoming ill from consuming their water.

Thousands of people were not compensated by Uisce Eireann because they did not complain directly to the company, instead relying on issues to be logged by TDs and councillors.

Locals can only receive a payout from Uisce Eireann if they complain directly to the company.

A report by The Journal Investigates found the utility paid out on 160 claims in 2024 even though more than 8,500 complaints were made in the first half of the year.

The 160 complaints resulted in €4,895 being paid out in compensation.

39 complaints were from customers who reported becoming ill from consuming their water.

Uisce Éireann said this “does not represent actual proven illnesses caused by drinking water”.

Customers who complain and don't get a response within 5 working days, or don't get an update after 10 days, are entitled to a 30 euro payout.

Uisce Eireann initially refused a request under the Freedom of Information Act asking how many customers had received compensation.

It argued that it “would not be in the public interest” for the figures to be reported, as it could lead to an “increase in the number of claims made”.

The Journal Investigates reporter Mairead Maguire says complaining directly might be time consuming but it's the best way to go.

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