There is relief for almost nine thousand households in Loughrea, County Galway, where a boil water notice has been lifted.

The notice was imposed in February amid fears of Cryptosporidium.

Irish Water says that following stringent testing, the HSE and EPA are now satisfied that the water is safe for consumption.

The company says over €300,000 has been invested at the two treatment plants in Loughrea to ensure a safe and reliable supply of drinking water.