Lack of support for Cork communities after storm events ‘not right’

It is “not right” that no scheme is available for sports clubs, community groups, and businesses to get support from the State following storm damage, a Cork TD has said.

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, Sinn Féin TD for Cork South Central, asked the Government for support for community groups and organisations affected by recent severe weather events, saying that two clubs in his constituency suffered damage that is very expensive to repair.

Value

He told the Dáil on Tuesday: “It is during storms like these that we really see the value of public services, especially our frontline public servants, those from the ESB, local authorities, emergency services, and An Garda Síochána.

“They were out in all weather, in very difficult circumstances, to ensure that people were safe, looked after, and were reconnected. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude.

“The storm wreaked havoc across the State. Cork city was probably not one of the worst affected areas, but nonetheless, damage was done,” said Mr Ó Laoghaire.

“One of the causes of frustration, and the reason I am raising it, is that while schemes are available for householders, as of yet, there is nothing for community groups, sports clubs, and businesses. That is a huge problem.”

Examples

Mr Ó Laoghaire cited two examples of sports clubs run entirely on a voluntary basis, saying: “A huge effort goes into fundraising to ensure that jerseys and footballs are bought and insurance is paid, and so on. When something like this happens, it sets clubs back hugely.

“Everton AFC had about €5,000 worth of damage done. Fencing, dugouts and goals were all upended. The club’s neighbours, Ballyphehane GAA club, which plays at the Old Red Mills GAA pitch, also had fencing, goalposts, and railings upended.

“This is a huge cost to these growing and developing clubs, which will set them back significantly. It is not right that there is no scheme available for them. It is not fair.”