Councils told: ‘be ready for winter emergencies’

Coaches and cars are seen stuck in snowdrifts on the Glenshane Pass near Londonderry, after heavy snow and winds caused overnight chaos in parts of Northern Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday March 31, 2010. The police, coastguard, mountain rescue and Department of Environment launched a joint rescue operation after motorists became stranded when 3ft-high snowdrifts swept across the mountainous Glenshane Pass, a main route between Belfast and Londonderry. See PA story WEATHER Snow Ulster. Photo credit should read: Paul Faith/PA Wire

One such emergency occurred in the Limavady Borough back in March 2010, when 300 people had to be rescued from their vehicles after they had become stuck on the Glenshane Pass following a bout of freak winter weather.

The response that day, by both Limavady Borough Council and the local community, has since been praised by local MLA Cathal Ó hOisín.

Sounding a call for readiness in anticipation of worsening winter conditions, Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: “District Councils have a leading role in responding to civil emergencies. We have had an increasing number of severe winters therefore I am calling on all councils to ensure that preparations are well underway this winter.

“The effectiveness of council emergency management was tested during the spring blizzard in March of this year. It is important that we learn from previous experiences and continue to make plans that improve our performance.

“I have been impressed with the spirit of cooperation and collaboration across all emergency agencies. Partnerships are vital to providing quick and practical assistance in emergency situations and maintaining essential links with local communities.

“It is crucial to plan now and be ready for the unexpected to ensure essential local services are sustained and meet the needs of our citizens, including the most vulnerable. Keeping our services open, even during severe weather, is vital to that.”