Natural gas customers on Ireland's West coast are being told to turn off their gas supply immediately.

The call from Gas Networks Ireland comes after an odourless gas entered the gas supply in the Galway and Mayo area.

For safety reasons, gas is equip with a scent in case of a leak, and so this odourless gas is a health and safety risk.

The problem affects customers in Galway City, Tuam, Headford, Ballinrobe, Claremorris, Castlebar, Westport, Crossmolina and Ballina.

'We are recommending this action because in the unlikely event of a leak customers in these locations only, will be unable to smell gas in the current circumstances,' said Gas Networks Ireland.

'While the risk is low, safety is our first priority in operating the network.'

The network estimates that this issue will be rectified over the next 48-72 hours.