Gardaí in North Cork have had a busy week as heavy snowfall left many residents stranded and pushed community services to their limit.
North Cork was among the worst-hit areas in the country over the last week, and while conditions are improving, many are still effectively trapped in their locality as they wait for the snow to melt.
Gardaí, Cork County Council crews and the Defence Forces have been instrumental in ensuring that the most vulnerable residents in affected communities are kept safe and well. The groups have worked with local farmers who have been out clearing roads from dawn to dusk each day to allow deliveries of food and coal to be made to vulnerable households.
Among those offering aid was Garda Liam O’Connor from Mitchelstown, who ensured that residents stranded in Kildorrery got the medicine and supplies they needed. Liam had the help of a local farmer who helped ferry the Garda through the final few kilometres, as the roads were impassable for the squad car.
The images were shared on social media by Gardaí, who encouraged residents to contact them if they need assistance.
Meanwhile, in Fermoy, local Gardaí are out and about helping Meals on Wheels, making sure that vulnerable members of the community are kept fed amid the cold snap.
Gardaí helping with Meals on Wheels in Fermoy
It’s not just Gardaí and state-run services offering assistance to affected communities. Over the last week, we’ve seen enormous shows of community spirit with standout individuals working tirelessly to help those in need.
Among these people is Mike O’Sullivan from Duhallow, who came to the aid of a milk lorry that had become stranded in the heavy snowfall.
The truck was sent out to collect milk from Mike’s neighbour but became stuck in the snow right outside the entrance. Mike was passing by in his tractor, and the driver flagged him down, asking for help.
Within a few minutes, the lorry was freed, and Mike spent the rest of his day clearing roads in the Kanturk area, ensuring locals could access the services they needed.