Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I assure the Deputy that I have the latest reports, although most of this is in the public domain. Power restoration means the numbers without public water are down to 25,000. The number affected by electricity outages is down to 75,000. As Mr. Sean Hogan stated on the radio this morning, the process is now becoming more difficult and time-consuming as we are getting to individual items. The Defence Forces have been out to assist and we have called in resources from many overseas jurisdictions to assist in restoring services as rapidly as possibly. I spoke to the Minister of State, Deputy Moran, before coming here and there is an acute understanding of the threat in Cork from potential flooding. There is very close monitoring with the local authorities of those events. The emergency committee is still actively engaged in ensuring we maximise our protection and be prepared for all eventualities. That work is continuing and there is a new focus on the particular incidence of potential storm Brian, which is approaching us. There are reports of it representing a significant threat.

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