Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath is calling for a Comprehensive National Storm Preparedness Plan and Energy Policy Review – the TD is to meet with the Taoiseach Micheal Martin later today.
Deputy McGrath is also expressing gratitude to the emergency responders and ESB workers who continue to help those affected by Storm Éowyn. The TD also welcomes the government’s efforts in setting up 16 ad-hoc emergency response centres, but says the overall response has been too reactionary. With 142,000 homes still without power and 74,000 people lacking water supply, the TD says Ireland needs a more proactive and comprehensive approach to disaster preparedness.
The TD also wants a review of energy policy that has led to the ban on turf cutting and solid fuel heating systems. As part of advance planning the TD says a network of community response hubs should be prepared with plans to provide solar batteries and medium-sized generators to vulnerable households and businesses also to be considered along with measures to ensure the water supply system is more resilient. The TD says Rural Ireland needs specific consideration by the Government.