Warnings ignored

At the time of writing, the predicted and dreaded three weeks’ rain falling in one evening for Ireland’s east coast has begun.

This deluge will probably lead to flash flooding and damage property and crops leaving a multi-million euro bill. Homes and businesses may be damaged and individuals and business already under strain will be further challenged.

Last night’s torrent came just days after an earlier flood that left widespread destruction in its wake. Inevitably, insurance companies will increase premiums to cover what seems inevitable losses so, in one way or another, we will all pay.

Though the arguments about climate change continue, despite the physical and scientific evidence, we have not changed our habits and continue to use the world’s finite resources with abandon. What will it take for us to mend our ways and leave a habitable world for our children?