Call For Multi-Agency Approach To Extreme Weather

A Sinn Fein MP has called for a multi-agency approach to the management of extreme weather events in the wake of Storm Ciara.

West Tyrone representative Órfhlaith Begley demanded action after her constituency of Omagh and the surrounding areas faced extreme flooding.

Footage shared online shows the Crevenagh Park and Share on the outskirts of the town completely underwater after the Drumragh River burst its banks. Those with cars left overnight were yesterday urged to collect their vehicle as soon as possible.

Elsewhere, the nearby communities of Trillick, Fintona and Newtownstewart were also affected.

Thousands of sandbags have been issued across the region as the Department for Infrastructure carries out pumping in badly flooded areas.

Ms Begley said the storm has sparked a need for collaboration between council and local emergency services to ensure further harsh weather events can be dealt with efficiently.

The Sinn Fein MP said: "I convened a multi-agency meeting with the head of the emergency response on Fermanagh and Omagh Council to ensure everything that can be done is being done.

"My party colleague and Minister for Communities, Deirdre Hargey, has also activated the Scheme of Emergency Financial Assistance to support District Councils with the flooding.

"All agencies must work together to make sure plans are in place to deal with extreme weather events like this.

"I will continue to work with local communities and statutory bodies to support local residents at this difficult time."

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said the ongoing weather situation is being closely monitored as weather warnings remain in place until Wednesday.



(JG)