Social Democrats’ Wicklow candidate Councillor Jennifer Whitmore has urged local authorities in areas at risk of flooding to carry out assessments and be proactive with timely advice and practical supports to local businesses and residents.

Cllr Whitmore said:

“There’s a real risk that, because the main focus is on the current snow storm, that we fail to prepare for potential flooding risks that could be coming our way. Snow melt, combined with powerful spring tides, could see localised flooding in coastal areas of the country including Bray and other low lying parts of Wicklow.

“Local authorities need to make sure that these kinds of risks are fully assessed, and that residents and businesses are prepared to deal with any potential flooding. Sand bags should be made available for communities to use, if needed.

“The OPW is warning that highest tides will be on Friday and Saturday, especially the first tides. Locations that are considered most at risk include Cork city and harbour area, and the low-lying areas on the Cork and Waterford county coastlines. On the east coast, the risk areas are Dundalk Bay, Dublin Bay, Wexford Harbour area and Wicklow, while in the south-west, the Shannon estuary and Limerick city are at risk of flooding.

“Cork City Council has already issued a flood warning in relation to tidal flooding in parts of the city. Irish Rail’s Dart southbound services were suspended yesterday due to flooding at both Salthill and Dún Laoghaire in Dublin.”

ENDS

2 March 2018

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