We need to lead the climate change battle

Anyone who doubts the relevance to Ireland of the global climate talks in Paris should take a long, hard look at how people are suffering in the unfolding crisis on the Shannon and other rivers, such as the Bandon, where water levels are expected to rise overnight. 

While the naysayers are still out there, hopes are also rising that the 195 countries gathered at the UN summit may yet save the planet.

The irony is that while farmers are among the many victims of Ireland’s latest spate of damaging floods, the Government has actively lobbied for a derogation of cuts in our beef and dairy herds, a major source of greenhouse gases.

Instead of seeking a cop-out, this country should be leading in the battle against climate change. Ideologically and morally, Ireland should give every support to developing countries struggling to survive the rigours of climate change.

Closer to home, it would not be surprising if the floods which destroyed homes, farms, and businesses became a political hot potato in the looming general election, mainly because, as far as angry local people are concerned, long-promised measures to protect them were not delivered.

Acutely aware of this possibility, the outgoing Government is bending over backwards, and rightly so, to facilitate farmers, homeowners, and more than 120 businesses which have been hit.

In the Shannon catchment area, for example, the worsening situation is so dire that thousands of acres are inundated and sheds and farmyards cut off, leaving fodder unusable and forcing farmers to move cattle to high ground.

Despite a brief spell of relatively good weather, the country’s biggest river continues to rise. In the face of this steadily growing threat, the level of co-operation among neighbours in rural areas, and in towns such as Athlone, is reminiscent of wartime.

Local authority staff and army personnel are also out, delivering thousands of sandbags and operating huge pumps to avert flooding.

However, many people are asking hard questions about the ESB’s management of the Shannon system, alleging it failed to release water during October in advance of the expected November rainfall.

A similar charge of holding back water so as to maximise electricity generation at its dams on the Lee was levelled following the disastrous 2009 floods. Effectively, the Shannon system was overwhelmed last weekend when Ireland was hit by a month’s rainfall in 24 hours

Not surprisingly, the crucial issue of compensation is a matter of great concern. If the various compensation funds prove inadequate or difficult to access, the Government is duty bound to increase the amount and make it easier for people to get the money they need to replace damaged carpets, furniture and floorboards.

It should also give serious consideration to a call to waive property tax and commercial rates for those whose homes and premises have been ruined.

With many living on flood plains unable to get insurance cover at a reasonable cost, if at all, the Government should follow Britain’s initiative by setting up a state-funded, non-profit insurance agency to help homeowners get around that obstacle.

A British solution to an Irish problem!