Mountain Rescue And RAF Assist Residents

Mountain rescue teams, the RAF, Red Cross and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service are just some of the organisations continuing to respond to calls for assistance from residents affected by extreme weather.

The PSNI, Road Service and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service are also responding, where necessary, along with council representatives, electricity providers, health providers and volunteers.

Helicopters are currently delivering medication and food boxes containing basics such as bread and milk.

A number of PSNI and Red Cross 4x4s are distributing packages to homes which can still be accessed by vehicles.

District Commander for H District, Chief Superintendent Chris Noble said: "All the agencies are working closely together to ensure those affected by the continuing hazardous weather conditions have essential supplies such as food and medicine.

“We are all working hard to get the supplies to those in areas where vehicular access is difficult. Some of these people have now been snowed in for four days and it is vital we ensure they have adequate food and medical supplies.

"I would ask motorists to continue to restrict their journeys to those that are absolutely necessary. I would also appeal to walkers to be mindful of the dangers of snow covered hills and mountains. Do not place yourself in unnecessary danger."

First Minister Peter Robinson has been visiting communities affected by the snow. Yesterday evening Mr Robinson visited the Multi-Agency Emergency Response Centre, which was set up to deal with weather.

"Whilst the obvious priority is human life there are also pressing animal welfare issues where livestock are without feed, or where housing has collapsed under the weight of snow," the First Minister said.

“Access to these areas is the first step to relieving the problem and it is vital that no time is wasted. I have been briefed by senior officials involved in the emergency reponse and have asked that everything possible be done to reach those cut off and those farmers who need help."

(IT)