Government appeal for the vulnerable issued as Storm Éowyn cleanup continues in NI
An appeal to keep "a close eye on" vulnerable people has been issued as authorities, aided by engineers drafted by the UK government, continue to deal with the aftermath of Storm Éowyn.
A large number of people remain without electricity on Sunday night following widespread disruption to "critical infrastructure". Drop-in centres have been opened across Northern Ireland and an appeal has now been launched, through an official government statement issued by Stormont, for assistance to be offered to "those most vulnerable members of our communities".
The UK government, meanwhile, has promised "every possible support" to help repair damage done by Storm Éowyn.
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The UK government, meanwhile, has promised "every possible support" to help repair damage done by Storm Éowyn.
Speaking on Sunday afternoon, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said: “The scale of the damage wrought by this storm is deeply concerning, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to all those working hard to restore electricity, clear fallen trees and debris and keep people safe. I am pleased that under mutual aid arrangements, specialist engineers from England are already in Northern Ireland to assist with the urgent effort to restore power to communities and more are on their way.
“We are also examining how we can assist with other requests made by the Executive and Northern Ireland Electricity for equipment and personnel. I will continue to work closely with Cabinet colleagues and Northern Ireland Executive ministers in the days ahead to make sure we are doing all that we can to support those affected."
In a statement issued by the Department for Infrastructure on Sunday evening, a Stormont spokesperson said: "Multi Agency partners are continuing to deal with the aftermath of Storm Éowyn which caused widespread damage and disruption to critical infrastructure across the north.
"Drop-in centres are open across NI. Further information is available on local council websites and on NI Direct.
"This a difficult time for those most vulnerable members of our communities and we would ask everyone to continue to help by keeping a close eye on neighbours and supporting them in whatever way you can."
The Storm Eowyn update continued: "The main strategic road network and the majority of other roads have been cleared and are open. The Department for Infrastructure will continue to respond to get remaining roads opened as quickly as possible. Road users should pay heed to ‘road closed’ signs as these warnings are intended to keep the travelling public safe while road clearance work is underway.
"NIE Networks are continuing to work on faults that will get power back to the highest possible numbers of homes and businesses as quickly as possible. Please check Power Check on their website at for an initial estimate of when power will be restored to your location. These dates and times will be refined as the restoration work continues over the next few days. Do not approach any damaged electricity equipment. Please be extra careful around fallen trees as they often take electricity poles and wires with them as they fall, and report anything that looks dangerous on 03457 643 643.
"NI Water are continuing with emergency repair work on their infrastructure and with this work ongoing some properties may remain without a water supply. Alternative Water Supplies are being made available to customers as required and local councils are supporting NI Water in the distribution of bottled water to customers without supply. The most up to date information can be found on the NI Water website by using the postcode search on NI Water’s social media channels."
The spokesperson added: "The Health and Social Care system is operating largely as normal. Following the impact of Storm Éowyn, HSC Trusts are continuing to work closely with a range of agencies to ensure that vulnerable service users are prioritised for assistance where required. For Urgent and Emergency Care services, patients are encouraged to use the Phone First Service for their local HSC Trust before travelling to an Emergency Department. However, call 999 if you or someone you care for is experiencing a life-threatening emergency. If you require mental health support, there are services in your area that can provide the help you need, including your GP and specialised healthcare professionals."
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