Rose Conway-Walsh (Mayo, Sinn Fein)
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89. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if his Department has undertaken any assessment of the number of community facilities damaged by storm Éowyn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14519/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Storm Éowyn was an unprecedented event which brought significant challenges to many communities, in particular in rural areas. The Government has been working to ensure that we take on board the lessons learned, in anticipation of similar weather events in the future.

In the immediate aftermath of the storm, those impacted were able to access basic services through local community buildings, many of which were repurposed as Community Emergency Response Hubs.

This demonstrated the importance of good community infrastructure being available in towns and villages. There has been record investment by my Department in supporting communities to develop and upgrade community facilities to ensure they are adaptable, accessible and fit for purpose - and the value of this investment was evident in the aftermath of the storm.

From community centres and halls, to playgrounds, amenity areas and shared spaces, there are thousands of community facilities across the country. It would not be feasible to undertake a detailed assessment of each one individually. In cases where repairs may be necessary, I would encourage community groups to explore the many existing funding avenues provided by my Department. Our schemes have the flexibility to adapt to the needs of communities, including with regard to damage caused by weather events.

My officials are also in regular contact with officials in local authorities, who would make any significant issues of concern known to us.

I have also asked my officials to continue to ensure that the schemes we operate continue to provide the flexibility that communities need to address their priorities, whether that be repairing damage, refurbishing existing community facilities, or developing new projects where there are no such facilities available.

I am confident that the continued investment by my Department will help ensure that we continue to support strong, resilient and vibrant communities all across the country.