Councils should work together in bad weather – Murphy

Disruption to communities around the country as a result of this week’s cold snap has under-scored the need for councils to share resources during adverse weather conditions, a Fine Gael Deputy has said.

Deputy Michael Murphy said that Tipperary experienced significant snowfall and icy conditions, causing disruption for local schools, as well as rendering a number of local roads impassable for motorists intending to travel to work or visit vulnerable family or neighbours.

Deputy Murphy said: “As always in testing times, we saw the best of people during the week in Tipperary and I particularly want to pay tribute to council workers, the members of the Civil Defence and utility company workers who did their utmost to clear pathways and roads and to restore lost power.

“However, what became evident is that Tipperary County Council was not as prepared or equipped as it could have been, with regard to the availability of machinery and personnel to carry out the necessary work to grit and clear all routes throughout the county in a timely manner.

“Neighbouring counties did not experience the same extent of snowfall or freezing, so greater communication between Tipperary County Council and nearby local authorities could have delivered a quicker and more thorough response for the affected areas.

“A Memorandum of Understanding between local authorities would provide for a strong, package of supports between local authorities, safeguarding adequate service delivery during adverse challenges, such as the weather event we’ve just seen.

“Practically speaking, it would enable local authorities to share equipment and personnel, while sharing good practice across the sector. Wednesday evening’s status orange warning for most counties resulted in varying degrees of disruption. Where any county or region is disproportionally affected, it should be possible to mobilise additional services from nearby local authorities unaffected by the weather event. A MoU would give an additional layer of security to local authorities that help will be provided, if possible.

“As we prepare for a new term of government, this needs careful consideration. Increasingly, we are experiencing adverse weather and an ability to plan and prepare for all disruptions must be prioritised.”