Our community in Midleton and surrounding villages of Dungourney, Castlemartyr, Carrigtwohill, Killeagh, Mogeely, Ladysbridge and Whitegate in East Cork, Ireland has endured the devastating consequences of recent floods. Friends and families have been displaced, fallen ill and suffered unspeakable trauma; businesses severely harmed, some lost altogether, and others facing extreme threat from a repeat event. The political and Agency will to address this issue seems half-hearted at best, with years of promises and a decade of delay. We cannot wait any longer for action.  

The gravity of the situation is evident.  There is a real threat to life.  During the Flood on October 18th 2023 there were some near fatalities.  If this flood happened at night it is certain there would have been loss of life.  This constitutes a national emergency, underscoring the imperative for immediate interim measures to safeguard lives in our community.

Urgently we are calling for the immediate implementation of short-term measures to safeguard peoples lives, homes and businesses in all East Cork Catchments. It is crucial that our community has representation that regularly meets with and consults with OPW flood engineers to develop and install temporary flood prevention measures, and monitor/scrutinize project progress. These measures will not only protect our properties but also provide much-needed reassurance until permanent facilities are built and commissioned.

Flood barriers for residential and commercial properties are essential, provided by Cork County Council following a precedent set in other areas for example Durrus, Wexford and Galway.

Moreover, we urge the development of natural flood defence protocols with relevant Agencies so that these can be installed in tributaries as a matter of urgency. According to the Environmental Protection Agency Ireland, natural flood management techniques can reduce the height of flooding downstream as well as other benefits.

The Government also needs to address the issue of insurance cover for homeowners and businesses in flood-affected areas where they are being refused cover due to flood risk.  The costs of restoring homes and businesses are punitive and the Government schemes such as Humanitarian Aid Fund are means tested and not fit for purpose.

The damage caused by recent floods, and the apparent increasing frequency of flooding events, is a stark reminder of how urgent this situation is and that we must act now before it is too late again.

Sign this petition today to demand immediate action on implementing effective flood protection measures in all East Cork Catchments.  You will receive an email after you sign to confirm your signature.