Housing Executive mobilises rapid response to Storm Éowyn

In the wake of Storm Éowyn’s devastating impact, the Housing Executive has launched a large-scale response effort, prioritising emergency repairs and support for vulnerable residents, Chief Executive Grainia Long announced Monday.

Preparations for the storm began early last week after forecasts identified it as a major incident.

“Our teams, contractors, and homelessness partners were placed on standby, and an extended Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) was activated to protect those at risk of rough sleeping,” Long stated. The protocol ensured additional shelter spaces and outreach services were available ahead of the storm’s arrival.

Since Friday, the Housing Executive has faced unprecedented demand, fielding over 5,300 calls and issuing more than 1,300 emergency repairs.

The majority of requests involved storm-related damage, fallen trees, and heating failures. Maintenance crews began assessments and repairs Friday evening once conditions stabilised, with 1,200 emergencies addressed by Monday.

“Our teams and contractors worked tirelessly through the weekend to assist tenants and mitigate damage,” Long said, praising their efforts. “We’re continuing to prioritize emergencies today, but due to the scale of disruption, some delays may occur. We thank tenants for their patience as we work to resolve all issues.”

As of Monday, January 27, all Housing Executive offices remain open, with local teams available to address urgent housing concerns. Meanwhile, the SWEP initiative stayed active throughout the weekend, providing round-the-clock support for homeless individuals. Outreach teams and voluntary organisations delivered extra bed spaces and critical aid to rough sleepers, a effort Long called “vital to saving lives.”

“The collaboration with homelessness providers and volunteers has been extraordinary,” she added. “Their swift action ensured no one was left unprotected during this crisis.”

Despite progress, challenges persist. High call volumes and complex repairs—particularly in hard-hit areas—mean full recovery could take time. Long emphasised resilience, stating, “This storm tested our preparedness, but our partnerships and protocols proved their worth. We remain committed to restoring safety and stability for all tenants.”

As clean-up continues, the Housing Executive urges residents to report urgent issues via official channels and heed safety advisories.