Flaherty seeks headquarters for Longford's Civil Defence volunteers

Tanaiste and Minister for Defence Micheal Martin made the admission last week in the Dáil when responding to a request from party colleague and Longford Westmeath Fianna Fáil TD Joe Flaherty.

Mr Martin said the necessity for debate to be undertaken on how best to draft new laws was best suited to talks at committee based level.

Those comments, made during the unveiling of the Civil Defence Bill 2023 came on foot of an address from Deputy Flaherty.
“Longford Civil Defence deserves a headquarters that befits its stellar efforts,” he said.

In noting his own desire to see a specified Civil Defence headquarters realised during the lifetime of the current coalition government, Deputy Flaherty took time to single out the ongoing efforts its members continue to make at local level.

“No event, be it community, sporting or local authority, takes place in Longford without the involvement of the Civil Defence,” he said.

“Members do their duty with a constant smile and a sense of community that leaves us in no doubt as to the values and qualities that define this great country of ours.

“We saw the Civil Defence at its best last year, as the war in Ukraine unfolded, when members were to the fore in the humanitarian operation here.

“They continue to provide ongoing assistance for those fleeing the war in Ukraine, with Longford Civil Defence assisting with 43 specific duties last year, most of which involved the provision and management of a rest centre.”

According to the Lanesboro native, no fewer than 100 engagements were overseen by the organisation, ranging from the likes of the Longford Show, Royal Canal Run and Dead of Night Festival.