Traces of the pesticide, glyphosate have been detected in public drinking water supplies in a number of areas of County Leitrim.
Glyphosate is a herbicide that is used mainly for the control of annual broadleaf weeds and grasses and is found in a number of weed killer formulations.
The discovery was made following routine testing of drinking water.
The areas affected include, Ballinaglera, and Dromahair.
The HSE say that the levels do not represent a threat to public health, however they describe the find as ‘undesirable’ and urged users of pesticides to be mindful of best practice when spraying their lands.
Manorhamilton Municipal District Councillor Justin Warnock has been vocal on the use of weed killer products, he says warnings on the use of the products should be extended beyond farmers:
