Loyalist helps tackle water crisis

The Progressive Unionist Pary (PUP) Deputy Leader questioned why so many older and vulnerable people have been left without water following the recent disruption of supply in communities across Northern Ireland.

Mr Gardiner has organised the distribution of emergency supplies of water to some of the most vulnerable residents of the Willowfield and Woodstock areas of Belfast, including older people, parents with young children as well as those affected by chronic and serious illness.

He said: "We have been using a house in Monkstown that has a functioning supply of fresh water. Volunteers have been taking bottles of water filled at this house and are distributing them to those in most need.

"This really is a most unfortunate situation, and again demonstrates how those who are most vulnerable in society are often those hardest hit by events such as these."

He said he recognised recent weather events had placed a significant strain on local infrastructure and had stretched the capacity of relevant Government Departments and Agencies.

But still he questioned the absence of adequate measures to support those most in need.

He stressed that while Government can't control the weather and adverse conditions they should be able to manage an effective response to it.

Mr Gardiner said: "There is a care home for the elderly in the Willowfield area of Belfast with no water and people with severe kidney problems. Northern Ireland Water has a duty of care to ensure those with kidney problems are properly catered for."

Mr Gardiner was keen to praise those from the local community who were working to provide support where they could and to help those who were suffering as a result of the shortage: "If nothing else, this shows that we still have strong and active local communities who can work together to address the difficulties they face."

Following reports of the effects of the thaw on interruptions to water supply, Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy said: "I have been receiving on-going updates from NI Water on how it is dealing with interruptions to water supplies across a number of areas as a result of the ongoing thaw.

"The Chief Executive has informed me they have brought in extra call handlers to deal with the volume of calls and that staff are working around the clock to repair bursts to water mains and restore water supplies to their customers, as quickly as possible.

"I would also support NI Water's call to all property owners to check their premises, including vacant buildings, outbuildings and animal drinking troughs for any leaks and bursts. If you do see any bursts, please contact the company on 08457 440088."