Diocesan News
Statement on this week’s flooding from the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe
Bishop Ken Good says: ‘It has been heartbreaking to hear and see the extent of suffering and hardship experienced by those affected by this week’s flooding in the North West. The ferocity of Tuesday evening’s thunderstorms was perhaps unprecedented in this region; it was certainly not predicted. I wish to acknowledge the efforts of the response teams – from various agencies – who tried to help people as the waters rose. It is essential, though, that an extensive review is carried out to establish what lessons need to be learned from this week’s event and to ensure that these are addressed.
‘A number of Church of Ireland churches were directly affected by the flooding in Faughanvale and Buncrana, and a charity shop and outreach centre in Glendermott Parish was extensively damaged. I recognise how distressing these incidents were for parishioners, but clearly that pales in comparison to the distress of many of our neighbours who were hit much harder: homes were inundated, property destroyed, cars literally washed away. Thankfully no lives were lost and that is something to be grateful for.
‘The flood victims – from Buncrana and Burnfoot, to Drumahoe and Eglinton – are uppermost in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I do wish to commend local clergy, church volunteers, parishioners and others who responded to the flooding in churches and church buildings. I am proud of what they did and grateful for their efforts. I am touched and encouraged by the love they have shown for their churches. If there is one positive to be drawn from the harrowing events of last Tuesday, it is surely the confirmation that community spirit is alive and well in our midst. Long may that continue.’
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Derry & Raphoe
Mr Paul McFadden
028 7126 2440
07525 826290
press@derryandraphoe.org