Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has expressed disappointment that a new, more localised weather warning system, which was due to be introduced by the end of this year, has been delayed.
The proposed system would replace county-wide alerts with warnings for more specific areas, using mapped zones known as polygons.
Deputy Cooney said he intends to raise the matter in the Dáil with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne, whose department has responsibility for Met Éireann, to seek clarity on the revised timeline and the reasons for the delay.
“Clare is a clear example of why a more localised system is needed. Weather conditions along the west Clare coast can differ dramatically from those in east Clare and other parts of the county.
“During recent storms, wind speeds in west Clare exceeded the thresholds associated with the warnings issued for the county. That underlines the importance of providing a more detailed regional breakdown so people can make informed decisions about how best to protect their homes, businesses and families.
“The public does pay heed to the warnings issued by Met Éireann, but I have heard frustration from people in west Clare who prepare for the conditions forecast, only to find themselves facing much more severe weather than anticipated.
“A one-size-fits-all approach to weather warnings is not working. I acknowledge that steps are being taken to address this through the proposed new system, but I am disappointed that a service expected by the end of this year will not now be in place.”
Deputy Cooney said a more localised approach would help ensure warnings better reflected the conditions people were likely to experience in their own communities.
“This enhanced localisation will provide clearer direction to those at risk and support more targeted emergency preparedness. People need accurate, relevant information that allows them to take appropriate precautions, particularly in exposed coastal areas where severe winds can have a significant impact.
“I am particularly questioning why focus groups are required at this stage, given that the UK Met Office already operates a tried-and-tested polygon-based system for its National Severe Weather Warnings. This approach uses mapped areas to identify where warnings apply, rather than relying solely on county boundaries.
“Of course, any system introduced here must be appropriate for Ireland and work effectively for our communities. However, there is an established model already in use nearby, and I would like to see a clear explanation of what further work is required and why the original timeline cannot be met.
“I intend to raise this matter in the Dáil with Minister James Browne and seek a clear explanation of the delay, along with a revised timeframe for introducing the system. Given the importance of timely and accurate weather information, people in Clare and across the country deserve clarity on when these improvements will be delivered.
“More accurate, localised weather warnings are not simply a technical improvement. They are an important part of public safety. People need to know what conditions to expect where they live, particularly when severe weather is approaching, and I will continue to press for progress on this issue.”