Chai Brady
The Bishop of Killaloe has called on water suppliers to make allowances for the farming community as a drought continues in Ireland and water restrictions are placed in hard hit areas.
Also keep an “eye out” for elderly neighbours as temperatures look likely to stay around the mid-20s in Ireland, bishops and clergy have warned
Vulnerable people will need additional supports during times of extreme heat, Bishop Fintan Monahan has said, particularly after several weeks of abnormal weather.
He encouraged parishioners in his diocese and across the country to make sure sick and elderly neighbours have basic necessities.
“There are many ways that people can keep an eye out for them – making sure they have adequate water supply, are able to get out to do their basic grocery shopping, that they have suitable clothing and ventilation available to them, that they are comfortable at night and have access to emergency services Temperatures have fallen slightly but authorities have cautioned people with pre-existing health issues such as diabetes and heart problems to be extra vigilant, as they are more prone to heat conditions.
Bishop Denis Nulty of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin highlighted the need to be sensitive and “aware of older people living alone”.
“We do that all the time here, we’ve great sensitivity for people to keep an eye on neighbours, I think that’s so important and in a hot spell particularly.”
With hosepipe bans in place in parts of the country and Irish Water warning of water shortages, he added all parishioners should be mindful of water use.
Farmers are particularly impacted by the drought conditions, which are causing concern for crop health and access to water for cattle.
Both bishops made calls for heightened awareness of the struggles faced by the farming communities, with Bishop Monahan saying: “The past few weeks, following hot on the heels of the extremes of bad weather from last March have been a very difficult time for farmers in trying to get water to livestock, animals, fields, land, tanks and ensure that suitable conditions are maintained for a second crop of silage to ensure the availability of Winter fodder.”
“I would appeal to members of the public and for water suppliers to make necessary allowances for those working on the land.”
The bishop said this would ensure farmers can maintain their livelihood and their animals “are cared for and thrive in a safe and secure environment”.