OPW Minister to visit Donegal following night of floods

Minister Kevin Moran who will see the devastation caused by last night’s flooding when he visits Donegal later today.

IRISH Government Minister Kevin Moran is on his way to Donegal to assess the damage caused by last night’s flooding.

The Minister responsible for the Office of Public Works confirmed a short while ago that he will visit Inishowen later today.

Minister Joe McHugh said, “My first thoughts this morning are with the families affected by this severe weather event.

“I also want to thank the emergency services, Donegal County Council and the incredible volunteers who worked through the night to save property and to save lives.

“Inishowen has been badly affected with some roads and bridges washed away. Many roads across the east of the county are also affected.

“It is important now that an initial assessment of the damage caused is carried out and I’ve been in contact overnight with a number of officials including the Office of Public Works.

“I have spoken with Minister Moran who recognised immediately the concerns of people in Donegal and he will be travelling to the county later today to meet local people and see for himself the damage caused.

“I am very grateful to Minister Moran for his prompt response to my request.”

Inishowen politician Cllr Bernard McGuinness said: “I have never seen anything like it in all my life. The rain was relentless and torrential.

“Roads which never flood did this time. It was a weather event not seen here in living memory with 70mm of rain in just a few hours.

“Damage in many areas is severe. I want to pay tribute to local people, emergency services and council staff who worked through the night.

“I have also spoken to Minister Moran this morning and I am grateful he will be coming to Inishowen this evening.”

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