John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I ask very strongly that the Taoiseach looks at this issue, which is of great concern to the farming community. In the cold spell we had last March, the Taoiseach called in an emergency response unit to deal with the crises that would result from the very cold weather. While everybody welcomes fine weather, it brings a considerable number of challenges, particularly for elderly people and the farming community. There are concerns about forest fires and water shortages, particularly in the cities. I ask the Taoiseach to consider reconvening the emergency response unit because although fine weather is something we all enjoy and welcome, the challenges it brings are no less serious than they were during the cold weather. I ask the Taoiseach to seriously consider that because it may be necessary if it continues for the period that has been forecast.

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