Irish Water hopeful high levels of pesticide in Leitrim water supply won't continue

Irish Water hope an exceedance of the pesticide MCPA in the South Leitrim water supply will not continue in the months ahead.

The utility confirmed last week that a routine monthly test of the South Leitrim Regional Water Supply Scheme showed up higher levels of pesticides in the water supply.

MCPA is a powerful, selective and widely used herbicide used to control the growth of thistles, docks and rushes

The HSE confirmed the water supply is safe for human consumption but Irish Water has said it is undesirable to have it in any drinking water supply.

Dr Pat O Sullivan, Compliance Officer with Irish Water says, farmers need to consider our water vulnerability and to use best practices when it comes to using pesticides.