NENAGH householders will be without a regular water supply until the weekend at the earliest following last week's pollution of the Co Tipperary town's major supply line.
The urban district council has not yet identified the source of the pollution which has left most of the town's 5,600 population depending on emergency supplies from tankers and old style water pumps.
Residents were informed on Friday the water was unfit for consumption after tests at the Gortlandroe sources showed contamination.
With the town already experiencing water shortages, the pollution incident has hampered the £2.5 million traditional music festival, Aonach Paddy O'Brien, which began last weekend.
Tourism was badly affected as guests could not drink the water and the supply was being cut off at night to preserve day time supplies.
Doctors treated a number of cases of stomach upset, after people drank from the town supply.
The pollutant is not thought to be toxic and householders have been informed the water is suitable for washing but under no circumstances is to be consumed directly.
The County Council has the authority to prosecute under the Water Pollution Act but cannot comment on possible court action until the source of pollution is identified.
Tankers will distribute water to residents from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. until the main supply is given the all clear.