By Dan Walsh
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow-Wexford, Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, has called for urgent action following repeated electricity outages across North Wexford, which have resulted in school closures and significant disruption for families and people working from home.
Deputy Ó Súilleabháin said his office has received ongoing complaints from residents, parents and businesses regarding the frequency of outages, particularly in the Ballyellis area.
“During October alone, the Ballyellis area experienced four electricity outages, three of which were planned by ESB Networks and one caused by adverse weather conditions. These repeated outages are having a real impact on families, schools and workers.”
The Deputy said that St Teresa’s National School has been particularly affected, as it is connected to the same electricity supply and has been forced to close during outages. The school has now been notified of another planned outage on 17th November, raising the prospect of yet another closure.
A former primary school teacher for more than 34 years, Deputy Ó Súilleabháin said he understands the impact lost school days have on children, teachers and families.
“Parents are left scrambling for childcare, children lose valuable classroom time, and school staff are forced to rearrange lessons and activities. The disruption extends far beyond the school gates.”
The Deputy also highlighted that Scoil Ghormáin Naofa in Castletown has experienced similar difficulties and said a long-term solution is needed.
Deputy Ó Súilleabháin is calling on ESB Networks to examine whether temporary generators, or a pool of generators, can be made available to schools during planned outages. He also called for a broader discussion on backup power supplies for schools.
