Fears over forces’ role in civil emergencies

Concern has been raised that proposed changes to army structures in Cork could impact on the Defence Forces’ ability to help during civil emergencies.

The army has played a strong role in helping with the aftermath of severe weather events in recent years, particularly the floods that hit Cork City in Nov 2009 and the freezing weather in Jan 2010.

Business leaders worry that the city and region could be affected if the response of the Defence Forces to such emergencies is limited.