The government must urgently identify vulnerable groups of people most impacted by Storm Éowyn to ensure they are prioritised for supports, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
“For many of those hit by this devastating storm, including the elderly and those living with chronic medical conditions, the ongoing power outages and water shortages are more than just an inconvenience – the situation is presenting a real risk to their lives.
“There have been harrowing reports of senior citizens struggling in freezing conditions, while others have been left without functioning medical equipment or access to healthcare services.
“More than 130,000 homes, farms and businesses are still without power – with work on reconnecting them expected to run well into next week – making this an unprecedented situation that requires a multi-agency response by every arm of the State.
“While ESB crews and first responders are doing incredible work under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, I believe that the Defence Forces could have a role to play in supporting their efforts.
“This could include the distribution of food and water to isolated households, the transportation of generators or even assistance with closing off roads where damaged power cables present a public hazard.
“These are all ideas that could have been put forward and discussed if the government had agreed to recall the Dáil this week to outline their planned response to the crisis. Their refusal to do so is unforgiveable.”
January 29, 2025