‘Trapped’ in their homes

In light of the recent rainfall, an update was sought on the council’s emergency plans to assist homes and businesses who are at risk of flooding.

Cllr Adrian Rogers (Aon) tabled the motion and Monday’s meeting of Cavan County Council, when he outlined how some constituents had to find alternative ways to deal with the impact of flooding.

One Ballyhaise resident was “trapped” in their home on a local road, and had to use a four-wheel drive tractor to travel to their hospital appointment.

Meanwhile an elderly couple who live between Knockbride and Canningstown had floodwater up around the front and back door of their home.

He mentioned a “build up” of silt in rivers as the reason, and accused the government of prioritising “fish over families” therefore they have not been cleaned.

He asked the council what plan they have to help people affected by flooding. Cllr Clifford Kelly listed issues in the Kingscourt area.

Cllr Winston Bennett (FG) asked if the Office of Public Works is doing anything to alleviate drainage issues.

Meanwhile, Cllr Val Smith (FG) said “councillors are getting abuse” on the issue, while the “funding is not there” to solve the problems.

“It’s very hard to say there’s no money to do the job,” Cllr Niall Smith (FF) agreed, while Cllr Brendan Fay (Ind) raised his concerns about the Claddagh River in Swanlinbar, which he said is “full of trees and everything”.

The motion was also supported by Cllr T.P. O’Reilly (FG), Cllr Damien Brady (SF), Cllr Aine Smith (FF), and Cathaoirleach John Paul Feeley (FF).

Head of Emergency Services Margaret McNally pointed out that Cavan County Council have a severe weather plan, while Director of Services Paddy Connaughton praised the “Trojan work” by council staff, the fire service, civil defence and other emergency teams in the past weeks.

He said the chamber should be under no illusion that the recent weather is an “effect of climate change”.