Greater support needed for Longford families affected by Storm Éowyn

The Government and the Department of Social Protection must provide greater support to families affected by Storm Éowyn, according to Fine Gael TD Micheál Carrigy.

Deputy Carrigy has called for increased State intervention to assist households, businesses, and communities still struggling with the aftermath of the storm nearly two weeks later.

“Across Longford, there are families who are still without electricity, water, heating, or online connectivity,” said Deputy Carrigy.

Also read: Storm Éowyn in Longford: Communities without light, heat, water or telephone coverage oscillating between hope and despair

“While the Department of Social Protection has made supports available under the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme, there remains a great deal of confusion among those impacted about what exactly is available and how to access it. Many of these households have never had to seek social welfare assistance before, and they need clear guidance and communication on the application process.”

Deputy Carrigy stressed that urgent action is required to ensure that the most vulnerable—particularly the elderly and those with additional needs—receive immediate help.

Also read: Frustration as over 400 Longford customers are still without power twelve days since Storm Éowyn

“There needs to be greater flexibility in how this scheme is administered. For families who have endured almost two weeks without power, payments should be issued immediately through the Community Welfare Service. The Government should also explore the option of a flat-rate payment for affected households to speed up the process and ensure they receive the assistance they need without delay.”

“As extreme weather events become more frequent, we must have comprehensive support structures in place to assist those affected. We cannot allow such levels of disruption to continue—schools should not still be closed nearly two weeks after a storm, and communities should not be left in limbo waiting for assistance,” he continued.

Also read: Who would have thought that in 2025 households in Longford would be without power for almost two weeks?

Deputy Carrigy also called for a review of emergency planning at both national and local levels.

“We need to take stock of what has happened over the past two weeks and ensure that local authorities and national agencies are fully prepared for future extreme weather events."