O'Brien urges Irish public to prepare for week-long severe weather

The government is urging the Irish public to prepare for severe weather conditions this week. 

It comes after a meeting of the National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) yesterday morning (Sunday December 11) to assess national and local preparedness in advance of the cold weather forecast by Met Éireann. 

Met Éireann has advised that an arctic air mass will remain over Ireland until at least Friday and bring a range of wintry hazards, including severe frost, ice and wintry showers, with freezing fog a particular hazard today. 

Speaking after the NECG meeting, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien said, "We will continue to monitor the ongoing weather conditions and ensure that all arms of the state are responding speedily and appropriately to meet any challenges.

"I would advise everybody to monitor national and local media, including social media, over the coming days to keep up to date with information regarding the developing weather situation. 

"Above all, make sure you stay warm and safe and keep in touch with vulnerable or elderly neighbours." 

Motorists are advised to slow down, allow extra time and be aware of other road users as driving conditions will be hazardous this week with black ice, freezing temperatures, and freezing fog. 

Pedestrians, too, should take extra care while walking as footpaths etc. can be extremely hazardous and/or slippery due to ice. 

Other public advice includes checking on vulnerable and isolated neighbours, and keeping phones charged on all journeys (in an emergency dial 999 or 112).  

The government is also encouraging people to use the website www.winterready.ie as it provides advice on preparing for severe weather. 

The public transport system continues to operate as normal, however the public are are advised to monitor transport providers' websites and social media channels for updates. 

Local Authorities have activated their winter maintenance plans and severe weather assessment teams are monitoring the situation and co-ordinating an appropriate response. 

Widespread gritting will continue, as well as ploughing where necessary. 

Local Authority outreach teams are continuing to engage with rough sleepers and encouraging them to avail of indoor shelter, with beds available in Dublin and other urban centres for anyone who needs one.

Schools will remain open as normal. 

The meeting of the NECG was convened by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in its role as Lead Government Department for the response to severe weather events.