Irish Rural Link calls for enhanced extreme weather supports
Irish Rural Link is calling on the government to provide more support for the community and voluntary sector to prepare for extreme weather events.
Following the recent storms, the national network representing the interest of rural communities said that the sector needs to part of the planning process and be prepared for extreme weather.
It said that this should involve a training programme, ensuring preparedness and a swift response with measures in place when weather warnings are issued.
“We witnessed the remarkable efforts of communities during the recent storms, as they supported those most affected," Seamus Boland, Irish Rural Link chief executive, said.
"However, we are advocating for a more structured approach to handling these extreme weather events, which are expected to become increasingly frequent.
"It is essential that we provide communities with the necessary resources and support to better prepare for such events in the future," he said.
Irish Rural Link will hold its annual information day on Rural Services in Buswells Hotel, Dublin from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. today (Wednesday, April 2).
The aim of today's information day is to allow members of the Oireachtas to drop in to the event and talk with some of the service providers to discuss the work they do in rural areas.
The politicians will also hear the challenges faced by the organisations and how their services are allowing people to remain living in rural areas and reducing isolation and social exclusion.
The national Meals on Wheels Network, rural transport providers, and Longford Women’s Link will be among the groups present at the event.
The different projects and programmes Irish Rural Link are delivering will also highlighted.
Seamus Boland said that the community and voluntary sector continues to struggle with rising costs.
"Demand for many of the services showcased here today is increasing, yet there is little or no increase in funding.
"Without these services, we know there would be many more people in rural areas living in poverty and isolation," he said.
The event will be opened by the Minister of State for Communities and Charities and for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer.
"Irish Rural Link is showcasing today how they have worked and continue to work towards creating vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable rural communities, ensuring these communities contribute to a more equitable and just society.
"A lot is happening in rural areas, and community and voluntary groups, such as those present here today, play a central role in this progress," the minister said.
“Rural communities are often criticised for not doing enough to protect the environment and for contributing to climate change, but Irish Rural Link demonstrates a different side to this story.
"Through the delivery of programmes and projects such as the CAP Network, Breeding Waders (European Innovation Partnership) EIP and past initiatives like FarmPEAT and Connecting Communities to Peatlands, Irish Rural Link is actively engaging all stakeholders in rural areas to drive the necessary environmental improvements and address climate change," he added.
