Donegal County Council to give earlier notice for emergency accommodation

Donegal County Council says it will provide “more notice” if it re‑activates a reimbursement scheme for vulnerable homeowners living in defective concrete houses during extreme weather.

During Storm Éowyn in January 2025, when a Status Red wind warning was in force, the council advised residents in mobile homes or other potentially unsafe accommodation to seek alternative shelter with family or friends and said it would consider reimbursing hotel or B&B costs for those unable to find overnight accommodation.

Following Storm Amy in April last year, the council also set up community hubs for people without electricity or water.

Calls for a registry and alert system

Donegal County Councillor Joy Beard has repeatedly urged the council to establish a voluntary, confidential registry of people living in structurally compromised homes, including the elderly and those with medical needs. She suggested a text‑alert system to inform registrants of available emergency accommodation during severe weather.

Michael McGarvey, Director of Environment & Climate, Property Management and Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme, said the council is not planning a new community‑hub scheme but may “move forward” with accommodation arrangements similar to those used during Storm Éowyn. He acknowledged criticism over late notice last time and confirmed any future policy would aim to give “more notice”. He also expressed concern that a text‑alert system might not reach everyone accurately.

Councillor Beard reiterated that the council must ensure vulnerable people are protected, especially as a Status Orange wind warning is currently in place for Donegal.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Nils Rotura / Pexels.