Following the devastating impact of Storm Éowyn upon local communities in the county, Roscommon County Council wishes to acknowledge the support of all stakeholders and communities who provided support to people affected.
The local authority, supported by over thirty community hubs throughout the county, provided ongoing support through its 24/7 Helpline as well as providing practical support such as hot water, blankets, phone charging facilities and other related supports.
The local authority also provided a meal voucher system whereby people affected were provided with a voucher to source food in local Hotels and Restaurants. Over 2,000 meals were provided to families affected.
As the majority of areas affected by Storm Éowyn have their power and water supplies restored, Roscommon County Council’s Humanitarian Response has accordingly been scaled down. However, support services will remain in place via the Community Department on 090 6637100.
Mark Keaveney Director of Services, Roscommon County Council’s Community and Enterprise Department, has acknowledged the support provided by communities and stakeholders during what was a challenging three week period.
“I’d like to sincerely thank the work of community and voluntary groups throughout the county who opened the doors of their community resources to support those most in need. Community is at the heart of everything we do and it is that support which highlights the very best qualities of our strong and enduring communities throughout the county.
“I would also like to extend my thanks to my colleagues on Roscommon County Council, both internal and external staff who worked over and above the call of duty to support families in need. With the collaboration of Roscommon Leader Partnership, HSE, An Garda Siochana and Civil defence as well as many others, this support comforted many people who were deprived of essential services such as water and electricity for a considerable length of time.
“I would also like to thank those in the hospitality and services sector who generously gave of their time and resources to support directly affected. Tremendous credit is also due to our emergency services such as ESB Networks, Uisce Eireann and other stakeholders for their professionalism and hard work during what was a difficult time.
“In conclusion, I would like to acknowledge the patience, understanding and resilience of the many communities who were directly affected by Storm Éowyn. Their understanding and courage was an inspiration to all of us working at the coalface of the many difficult challenges that arose”, said Mr. Keaveney.
Roscommon County Council’s Emergency Helpline will be replaced by the Roscommon County Council Community Department number 090 6637100 from 9.30am to 5pm daily.
Members of the public seeking assistance are invited to contact their local Community Welfare office during office hours on 0818 405 060.
Details of the Community Humanitarian Assistance Grant are available on https://ow.ly/zqAY50UWSgp. Applications for this grant remain open.
