Galway county councillors stated their gratefulness to all council workers, ESB workers, and emergency services who were on duty during Storm Ophelia.
The storm which was the biggest to hit the county in over half a century, resulted in fallen trees, flooding, and loss of electricity for thousands of homes throughout the county.
County caothaoirleach Eileen Mannion led the tributes in county hall on Monday.
“Everyone in the chamber and the county is grateful to the work of council workers who were out during Storm Ophelia. We thank them for all their efforts for their wonderful job under circumstances.”
Sinn Féin councillor Dermot Connolly said; “The services were out as soon as it was possible and even when it was not safe to help. The services had everything under control in an efficient and speedy manner. We must also thank the efforts of ESB.”
Cllr Joe Byrne said the public should not take the emergency services and council workers’ work for granted, especially in dangerous weather conditions.
“There is an expectation on council workers that they should be working out in the worst of conditions. Council workers were making sure roads were passable and safe. I must compliment them on the work they did in my area.
Cllr Mary Hoade echoed Cllr Byrne’s comments saying that it was important to acknowledge emergency services.
“We have to think about emergency services. Most people did not have to go to work on Monday. But those on the frontline, nurses and doctors, and other emergency services did not have this option. They must be commended for their efforts last Monday in difficult conditions.”
Cllr Jim Cuddy and Cllr Michael Connolly also praised the efforts of MET Eireann and RTE saying they provided a great source of information and comfort during the storm and without the warnings a lot more people would have died.
