Newry Council Defends Flood Response

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has defended its response to the recent disastrous floods in Newry City.

Speaking to Clanrye News and Sport a Council spokesperson said:

“Working as part of a multi-agency response, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council staff have been at the scene of the flooding providing assistance throughout the emergency and will continue to do so, and has provided guidance to the public through the period of adverse weather.

The Council will be working as part of the multi-agency response to put in place a recovery plan for the businesses, however the Council does not have the legislation or powers to offer rate relief. Businesses may also wish to contact the Land and Property Services – Application Based Rate Relief Team for further advice and information on the Hardship Relief scheme.

The Council coordinated the operation of the sluice gates at Victoria Lock in liaison with the Rivers Agency. The sluice gates are located within the lock infrastructure and are operated independently of the actual Lock gates. The Sluice Gates were/are closed 30 minutes before each high tide and opened again 30 minutes after the high tide to reduce the impact of the tidal surge.  In addition, the sluice gates were open during the day on Monday 30 October in advance of the 9pm amber weather warning coming into force, and then closed at midnight as the 12.37am high tide approached. This arrangement will continue for each high tide as required throughout this emergency situation.”

ENDS