Northern Ireland is sweltering under freak hot weather with new record temperatures being set twice within a week and the possibility of another today or tomorrow.
nd true to form the sunshine has been accompanied by warnings of a hosepipe ban being introduced shortly unless domestic consumers cut consumption of water.
Ireland is known as the Emerald Isle for a reason; there is enough rainfall every year to keep the countryside glistening green and inspiring songwriters.
But no matter how much rain falls it does not take long periods of good weather for demand to outstrip supply.
NI Water says its water treatment plants are working at maximum capacity but it has long been asked why there are never reserves to meet unexpected hot weather such as occurring currently.
It was only three years ago that a hosepipe ban lasting three weeks was introduced in the province. It is obvious more investment is needed in our water infrastructure.