Statement from Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Frank O’Flynn

The Met Eireann Orange Rainfall warning, which has just expired, has resulted in a months’ worth of rain falling in just 24 hours. This is on top of already saturated lands and high river levels. It is evidence, if any were needed, of our changing climate and the issues that it presents.

I am especially conscious of the advanced preparations that were undertaken by Cork County Council in mitigating the effects of this event and how, despite every effort, homes, businesses and road users have been impacted. Areas where flood defence schemes have been completed fared far better than others in the face of this deluge. I know from speaking with Council staff that some of the issues they are dealing with are unprecedented, with roads which have never flooded now under water. I am calling on the people of Cork to please avoid unnecessary travel, take extreme care if you must set off on a journey and please think of vulnerable road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. 

As a Council, we will continue to work across the county, both in a preventative capacity while also dealing with issues as they arise. The results of this weather event will be long felt as we move toward a clean up phase but can I please reiterate the importance of staying safe and together we will come through this weather event.