Collins Demands Humanitarian Aid for Dromcollogher After Flooding

Dromcollogher has been urged to receive immediate humanitarian assistance following severe flash flooding that occurred on July 20, 2023. Senator Joanne Collins of Sinn Féin made this appeal after witnessing the impact of the disaster on both residents and local businesses. The flooding left many locals bewildered, standing in knee-deep water, as shared footage on social media highlighted the extent of the damage.

In response to the emergency, the Limerick City and County Council activated its emergency services after receiving numerous distress calls. Crews from the Limerick Fire and Rescue Service were deployed from Newcastle West, Abbeyfeale, and Rathkeale to assist in the affected areas. The floodwaters reached their peak around the Dromcollogher Respite Centre, where a coordinated pumping operation was implemented. Reports indicate that some residents were evacuated from the centre due to concerns voiced by their families.

“It is estimated that as many as 20 homes were damaged in the town due to the flash flooding,” Senator Collins said in a statement to the media. She emphasized the urgent need for the government to activate the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme to support the impacted families. “I have written to the Minister for Social Protection requesting that this scheme be enacted without delay,” she added.

Community Resilience and Government Accountability

During her visit, Senator Collins expressed admiration for the “remarkable community spirit” displayed by Dromcollogher residents. She noted, however, that this resilience must be matched by swift government support to aid recovery. Collins highlighted the numerous warnings issued by residents and local agencies in the past regarding the potential for flooding, stating that many had raised concerns as recently as the previous year. Unfortunately, those warnings largely went unheeded by the authorities.

“It is shocking to hear that various agencies and State actors were contacted by residents predicting the flooding that occurred last week. This flooding should not have happened, and certainly not at this scale,” Collins remarked. She announced plans to request a comprehensive review of the town’s flood defence measures, stressing that this should be prioritized to mitigate future risks.

Long-Term Impact on the Community

The long-term consequences of the flooding are expected to affect the entire community for months. Senator Collins asserted that the State must provide support to the people of Dromcollogher, reflecting the strength and unity the community has shown in facing adversity. “The State must stand alongside the people of Dromcollogher, just as the community has stood strong in the face of this disaster,” she stated.

As recovery efforts continue, residents and local officials remain hopeful for a timely response from the government. The call for humanitarian assistance marks a crucial step in addressing the needs of those affected and ensuring the community’s resilience is backed by adequate support.