Aldi halts sale of paddling pools amid six-week hosepipe ban

Earlier this week, Aldi stated that the planned sale of its inflatable paddling pools would be cancelled. This comes as a six-week hosepipe ban was introduced on a nationwide scale amid ongoing drought concerns.

After weeks of summery, dry weather, many would consider purchasing a paddling pool for their backyard. While fun and a great way to keep children occupied with ongoing social distancing measures in place (such as the continued closure of public pools), paddling pools use large amounts of potable water which eventually goes to waste.

In a statement on the water.ie website, Irish Water states that of their 900 drinking water schemes, 27 are currently in drought, with a further 50 at risk of drought. This comes after Met Éireann reported the driest May since 1850.

Conservation

Aldi's group buying director John Curtin says that conservation is more important than recreation.

"We understand that some customers may be disappointed, but conserving water usage at this time is a priority for our customers, so we need to support this national water restriction, also, so that everyone can play a part in helping to conserve water," he says.

In another statement, managing director of Irish Water Niall Gleeson said he understands why paddling pools are an especially attractive option this year, but it's not worth the amount of water needed.

“It is very clear from Irish Water’s data that warm weather creates a surge in demand of water," his statement reads.

"Such weather brings people into their gardens and makes the use of hoses more likely. Similarly with children confined to home, it can be tempting to use paddling pools, etc. However, using a hosepipe for one hour is the equivalent of the daily water usage of an average family and this is evidently a non-essential use of water.”

Aldi had planned for its ring paddling pool and jumbo paddling pool to be available from 11 June.

Irish Water's tips for everyday water conservation include turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, taking a shower instead of a bath, using a basin in the sink for washing fruits and vegetables, then reusing that water on houseplants or in your garden, and keeping a jug of drinking water in the fridge to avoid running the tap until the water turns cold.

In correspondence with Irish Country Living, Irish Water says that water conservation doesn't have to be complicated. It also discussed water usage on farms, noting, in particular, that the ban does not apply to water usage on farms.

"The purpose of the water conservation order is to protect water supplies for essential use, including handwashing during the COVID-19 pandemic," they write.

"Customers who do not adhere to the conservation order could be liable to a fine of €125. However, during the last water conservation order in 2018, the public responded positively and no fines were issued.

"Safeguarding the supply of water is essential at this time when handwashing and hygiene is of critical importance. We are calling on everyone to play their part.

"Use of water on farms does not fall under the water conservation order. Many farmers have their own wells and water sources. However, some of these sources may be affected by drought. Irish Water has advice and guidance on our website for conserving water on the farm."