Debate contribution: El Niño
Debate contribution by Ms Liz Kimmins on .
- MLA
- Ms Liz Kimmins
- Party at the time
- Sinn Féin
- Date
- 13 October 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution (made as a minister)
- Business
- Oral Answers to Questions
- Heading
- El Niño
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5789934
Read the official Assembly record
Text
El Niño is an example of the more frequent and intense rainfall events that are a consequence of increasing climate change. Therefore, preparedness and resilience have never been more important. This year, there has been considerable attention on the development of El Niño and its potential influence on global weather patterns. Whilst we cannot control the weather and prevent all flooding, I assure the public that we remain alert and prepared. Our duty officer and flooding officer rotas operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to ensure that we are ready to respond when required. There are currently around 45,000 homes and businesses at risk of flooding across the North, and because our changing climate brings more frequent and intense rainfall, the figure is projected to increase to nearly 60,000. As we know, flooding can put lives at risk, damage homes and businesses, disrupt communities and have a lasting impact on people's mental health. My Department carries out a wide range of activities to manage flood risk, including the delivery of flood alleviation projects. It also responds to calls to the flooding incident line, which is available at any time of the day or night. My officials work closely with partner organisations, including the community resilience groups, to prepare for and respond to flooding emergencies. However, it is important to note that we cannot control the weather and prevent all flooding; we can only mitigate as best we can. This is Flood Awareness Week, and my Department will share practical advice to help people prepare for flooding and help protect themselves, their families, their homes and their businesses.
270 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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