Killybegs

Killybegs Drenched: A Tale of Flooding, Politicians, and Emergency Action!

Flood waters may have risen, but so have community spirits in Killybegs! Read all about the aftermath of Storm Bert and the need for urgent action!

Killybegs has found itself battling the aftermath of severe flooding that struck the town during the recent Storm Bert. With floodwaters at their peak rising to an impressive 1.2 metres, residents awoke to find a landscape transformed. Streets turned into rivers, and Bridge Street's water levels were so high that they enveloped the roof of at least one unfortunate vehicle. Emergency crews have been hard at work, tirelessly pumping out water and assessing damage. Locals are quick to lend a helping hand, showcasing that classic Irish resilience, even in the face of chaos.

Prominent local figure Pat 'the Cope' Gallagher has been vocal about the need for immediate government support. His history of pushing for robust flood prevention measures indicates this isn't the first time Killybegs has endured such a watery siege. Gallagher, who served in Dáil Éireann between 2016-2020, has reached out directly to An Tánaiste Micheál Martin to activate the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme, aimed at aiding those severely affected. The urgency is palpable - Gallagher insists that without substantial preventative measures, Killybegs residents may have to brace themselves for future storms, which is a thought nobody wants to dwell on for too long.

Housing, business premises, and community spaces have all felt the wrath of nature, with many now counting the costs of the aftermath. Councillor Manus Boyle has taken to social media to shed light on the flooding's impact, calling for a collective effort from both the government and the local community. As clean-up operations continue, the camaraderie among Killybegs' residents shines brightly, proving that even in the most challenging times, the spirit of community remains unshaken.

As Killybegs works to recover, this storm serves as a stark reminder of climate change and its increasing impact on local environments. Did you know that the Irish coastline is eroding at an alarming rate of 1.6 metres per year in some areas? It’s crucial that lessons are learned from this incident to better protect our towns and villages against future flooding disasters. Furthermore, Killybegs isn’t just a hotspot for storms; it is also a renowned fishing town, contributing over €100 million annually to the local economy. Balancing recovery with progress is key, and with the support of the community and local leaders, Killybegs can chart a path forward toward a resilient future.