Issued : Monday 27 December, 2010

Those living in flood prone areas should be aware of the risk of flooding. Bandon’s early flood warning system has highlighted potential minor flooding on the northern bank of the river. This area encompasses the walkway between the footbridge and the main bridge. The Playground will also be at risk of flooding.

The water supply to all areas of West Cork is at a critical level and shutdowns will be necessary throughout the day to conserve water and locate leaks. All Cork County Council water supply plants are on full production with demand abnormally high for this time year. All available crews have been mobilised and are dealing with burst water-mains in several locations”

Most areas will have to be shut down overnight to allow the reservoirs to recover. Areas of Bandon will be without water from 11pm tonight, to facilitate necessary emergency maintenance and to conserve water stocks.”

I am appealing to householders with a supply to use as little water as possible to help the situation. Owners of unoccupied property should check for leaks and turn off if necessary.”

I would urge members of the public to tune into local radio stations for flood / weather updates.

• Check www.bandonfloodwarning.ie for updates.
• Be alert of the water levels near you.
• Be ready to act on your flood plan, if the flood alert is raised to an Orange or Red alert.
• Check the safety of elderly in the flood zone.
• Avoid open riverbank areas.”

The work carried out by our local authority staff must be recognised as outstanding. For over a month people in our community have been doing their level best to ensure the safety of everyone.