Diocesan News05 Feb 14

Statement Concerning Floods In Cork

The Bishop of Cork, the Rt Revd Dr Paul Colton, has this afternoon (Wednesday, 5 February, 2014) made the following statement:

Since yesterday evening I have been in on–going contact with people most directly affected by the flooding in Cork City. I am also conscious of the flooding that occurred in other parts of the county last evening – in Clonakilty, Bantry, Youghal, Kinsale and Carrigaline, for example – as well as in the wider region.

Starting at 8.00 a.m. this morning I began a visit to my neighbours in Cork City centre, to call on and speak with business people and traders, many of whom I know personally, or who I know to meet and see.

I was able to see at first hand the damage that the flooding caused last night. For many this was their third such disastrous event already in 2014 impacting on their businesses.

My heart goes out to all those affected by the floods of recent days, most especially those whose homes have been overrun with flood–waters, including students living near us, and, indeed, one of our own retired clergy and his wife. My sympathy and solidarity is also with those in business who, not least amidst the commercial challenges of the current times, find it hard to take these further setbacks and challenges to their livelihoods.

I have been struck today by the range of emotions I encountered: despair, fear and some tears, but also, resolve and resilience already, great community solidarity, and even good humour and laughter. People were sharing resources with each other, lending a helping hand; and making a fresh start at 8.00 a.m. even though many of them had been up most of the night.

On behalf of us all in the Church of Ireland community I send our good wishes to those affected and assure them of our prayers. Prayers and good wishes must be matched also, however, by practical response and support in whatever way any of us can at every level of our community and society, locally and nationally.