merrion street

The National Coordination Group this morning has reviewed the impact of the latest storm to hit the country. The Minister for the Environment attended the meeting and was updated on the significant damage and disruption in the transport and energy sectors caused by yesterday’s storm. There was also damage to communication infrastructure and up to 60,000 customers may be without service.

This morning, 190,000 homes and businesses remain without supply. As part of the emergency response today, crews from Northern Ireland Electricity will join ESB Networks staff to assist in the restoration effort. Also ESB Networks crews have been drafted to the worst affected areas from all over the country and are already assisting in the repair work. The ESB have deployed 2,000 staff to deal with power outages, and it could take a number of days to restore power to all areas as some of the infrastructure is in remote areas and access problems may hinder them.

• People should keep warm and take care with alternative forms of energy.

• People are asked to check on vulnerable neighbours in their community in areas without power.

• Persons with specific medical concerns are advised to contact their medical practitioners for advice.

ESB crews will also be prioritising power to infrastructure such as water treatment plants and pumping stations as these facilities can cause public health issues.

The public have been reminded to continue to follow the weather warnings and to heed the safety messages of the authorities. All road users are advised to exercise extreme caution as there is still the danger from debris/fallen trees and icy roads today. People should use public transport where available, allowing extra time for journeys and check details with their transport providers in advance of travel.

The group noted the ongoing community resilience and praised the public for heeding safety advice. Met Éireann have said the current unsettled spell will continue tomorrow and Saturday with heavy rain and very strong and gales.

The National Co-ordination Group will continue to monitor the situation.

Read the full press release

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