Taoiseach Micheál Martin has called for increased resilience in Ireland’s infrastructure and announced that the country’s weather warning system will be reviewed.
This comes after around 1,500 homes were left without power on Thursday afternoon, more than two weeks after Storm Éowyn caused record-breaking winds. ESB Networks has since reported that the number of homes without power may drop to 700 overnight.
Martin described Storm Éowyn as “unparalleled in its ferocity,” noting it caused more power outages than previous storms, including Darragh and Ophelia.
In an interview with RTÉ Radio, Martin acknowledged the distress caused by prolonged power and water outages and confirmed that Met Éireann’s weather warning system would be re-evaluated.
“We will review it. I understand that for many, being without power and water for so long was very distressing,” he said.
Martin commended the ESB maintenance teams and the foreign personnel who assisted in restoring services.
On the water supply issues caused by the blackout, Martin emphasized the need for more robust generator capacity.
“I met with Irish Water last week. We need to act now to significantly improve the resilience of our system,” Martin said.
He also suggested that emergency community centers, such as those in stadiums and other large buildings, should be formally integrated into the national emergency response system.
The National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) held a meeting today to continue efforts to restore power, water, telecommunications, and other essential services following the storm.
To date, 766,500 homes, farms, schools, and businesses have had power restored.
In a statement this evening, ESB Networks stated, “We expect fewer than 700 customers to remain without power overnight. Power restoration will continue after daybreak tomorrow.”
The company also indicated that some customers, particularly in Roscommon, North Galway, Mayo, and parts of South Leitrim, would experience continued outages.
Uisce Éireann is working to restore water to the last few affected customers.
Meanwhile, Storm Éowyn’s impact on national telecommunications has been recorded as the largest ever by ComReg. As of 10 am on Saturday, 0.36% of fixed-line service customers and 0.13% of mobile customers experienced disruptions.
Emergency response centers are now offering essential services, including water, hot food, mobile phone charging, broadband, and shower facilities. The centers are also providing study rooms for exam candidates.
The National Electricity Regulator has issued a safety reminder in the wake of the storm, urging the public to avoid contact with downed power lines and damaged grids, as they may remain live and dangerous. For any infrastructure damage, the public is encouraged to call 1800 372 999.
