'Now is the time for action': Calls to recall the Dáil after Storm Éowyn destruction

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald wrote to the Taoiseach asking him to urgently recall the Dáil to address the aftermath

A tree fell on the roof of the home of Angela Ducey at Killavullen, Co Cork, during Storm Éowyn. Picture: Larry Cummins

Mary Lou McDonald has written to the Taoiseach asking him to urgently recall the Dáil in order to address the aftermath of Storm Éowyn.

Writing to Micheál Martin on Monday, Ms McDonald said the severity of the situation requires immediate attention.

"Across the country, communities are facing emergencies that demand the Government's direct engagement and support," the Sinn Féin leader said.

"It is imperative that TDs be given the opportunity to raise these urgent issues on behalf of their constituents and to collaboratively determine the immediate actions needed to support those impacted."

Following the election of the Taoiseach and government last Thursday, the Dáil adjourned and won't sit again until Wednesday, February 5.

With 246,000 customers still without power and 40,000 households without water, Ms McDonald said the Taoiseach must engage with TDs around a co-ordinated, robust, and cross-departmental response to assist those affected.

Cleaning up the damage in Tuam that was caused by Storm Éowyn. Photo: Ray Ryan

"I call on you to demonstrate decisive leadership in this moment of crisis by recalling the Dáil as a matter of urgency. Not to do so would be political negligence," Ms McDonald said in her letter.

"It is essential that the Government engage directly with elected representatives to address these acute concerns and to put in place the measures necessary to assist those in need. Now is the time for action."

Ms McDonald said the people who have been impacted by Storm Éowyn cannot afford to wait until next week for the Dáil to return.

Sinn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane is one of those impacted and has said those in the west and north-west are in an emergency situation.

TDs are being left in a difficult situation in terms of accessing ministers, getting answers to questions and accessing supports on behalf of constituents, Ms Kerrane said.

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Social Democrats acting leader Cian O'Callaghan also called for the Dáil to return to deal with the "trail of utter destruction" Storm Éowyn left in its wake.

"Storm Éowyn was one of the most powerful and damaging wind events to hit the country in nearly 200 years. Yet, the government wants to continue with a two-week recess while families and communities are left to pick up the pieces," said Mr O'Callaghan.

"It is critical that the Dáil sits this week so that the destruction that has been caused in so many parts of the country can be discussed — along with plans to provide emergency supports."