Máiría Cahill (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I echo Senator Barrett's comments in regard to Fr. Gerry Reynolds. He was a champion of dialogue in relation to obtaining peace. I knew him and am deeply saddened at his death. I echo also the comments of Senators Marie Moloney and Michael Comiskey on the recent storms and pay tribute to members of the emergency services who worked hard in the past week to keep people safe. I convey my condolences to the family of Ivan Vaughan, the 70 year old man from Tyrone, who died as a result of being swept away in floodwaters in County Monaghan at the weekend. Storm Desmond has wreaked havoc across the country and many people have been affected. Coming so close to Christmas, it is a cruel blow for Mr. Vaughan's relatives. I wish to send good wishes to the 14 year old rescued from the sea at Hook Head and who remains in a critical condition.

I welcome the fact the Government will consider today an aid package for those affected by the storm and that the Department of Social Protection is overseeing hardship payments to those in need. Weather conditions are outside the Government's control. Will the Leader ask for an update from the relevant Departments as to what contingency plans will be put in place for the forthcoming expected bad weather, particularly in those counties expected to be hit the hardest because without a contingency plan agencies will continue to fire-fight?