Kerry County Council has issued a statement on the recent weather situation within the county. The statement includes advice, praise and thanks-giving to the many agencies and individuals who have been at the front-line of the battle against the elements.The statement was issued on behalf of the Kerry Severe Weather Local Assessment Team.
The Kerry Severe Weather Local Assessment Team is an Inter-Agency Group consisting of: Kerry County Council; Fire Services; Civil Defence; An Garda Siochána and the HSE. The group met frequently over the Christmas and New Year period to manage the response to the recent extreme weather conditions.
This was an extremely difficult period for local communities, households and businesses.
Appreciation for Co-Operation
The council and the local assessment team also wish to place on record its appreciation for the hard work and co-operation, in difficult conditions, of all individuals and agencies involved during the recent events and in particular to the following: An Garda Siochána – Chief Superintendent Pat O’Sullivan and his colleagues; HSE – Theresa O’Donovan and her colleagues; Kerry County Council staff members; Fire Services; the staff and volunteers of the Civil Defence .
The Kerry County Council Flood Emergency Management Team will continue to monitor the on-going weather conditions and further spells of heavy rain are predicted over the coming week.
Regard to Weather Forecasts
The public is being asked to have regard to weather forecasts and to exercise on-going caution given the current conditions.
Where members of the public are aware of damage or potential risks (e.g. blocked drains, culverts or bridges) the council asks that this is brought to its attention.
A full assessment of recent events is being carried out to fully assess the extent of the damage to public infrastructure and a preliminary submission has been made to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government on the cost of our response and repairs required. Kerry County Council is also assisting the Red Cross in processing any claims from businesses for emergency funding.
Flood Risk Management
Details of the extent of the recent flooding are being recorded and will be submitted to the OPW – which is the leading agency for flood risk management and has been tasked by the Government to identify options to mitigate against the future risk of flooding.
The Council would also like to thank the media for their assistance in keeping the public informed of the changing circumstances and to members of the public who brought flooding incidents to the attention of the public and the Council.
Most importantly, Kerry County Council wishes to compliment the great community spirit and resilience demonstrated throughout the county.
Queries in relation to roads-related emergencies like flooding and fallen trees etc can be dealt with through the Emergency Number: 087-23 51 847
