Farm families struggle after Storm Eowyn

IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chairperson, Teresa Roche, has expressed deep concern about the impact Storm Éowyn is having on farm families. Many rural households remain without power and water, creating significant challenges for daily life and farm operations.

"The loss of power and water has disrupted farming activities and left many households struggling to manage basic needs. This is particularly hard on families with young children and elderly members," Teresa Roche said.

Ms Roche is urging everyone in rural areas to check in on their neighbours to ensure they are safe and have support during this challenging time. "A simple call or visit could make a huge difference, especially for vulnerable households," she said.

She also called on local authorities and service providers to prioritise restoring essential services as quickly and efficiently as possible. "We understand the scale of the damage caused by the storm, but it’s critical that efforts to restore power and water are carried out with urgency," she added.

To support those directly impacted by the storm, the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is available to assist households facing financial hardship due to storm-related damage. This scheme provides essential support for families as they navigate the recovery process. “I encourage all eligible households to avail of this assistance,” Teresa Roche said.

More information on the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme can be found here Gov.ie - Humanitarian Assistance Scheme

"Storm Éowyn has reminded us of the resilience and strength of our rural communities. By working together and supporting one another, we can get through this challenging time," the IFA Farm Family & Social Affairs Chair concluded.