We are on the cusp of being hit by Storm Callum. Will the Minister confirm whether the national emergency co-ordination group, NECG, will meet this afternoon? In the context of what are expected to be 130 km/h winds with spring tides, there is considerable disruption forecast for the morning. As the impact of this will be felt at commuting time, when will the Government be in a position to alert people about travel plans for the morning? Is it satisfied that adequate preparations are in place for what may be ahead?

I thank the Deputy for raising this because it gives me the opportunity to inform the House that the Department has convened a meeting of the NECG for 3 p.m. this afternoon to review preparations and public safety messaging for the arrival of Storm Callum, as well as to highlight to Departments and agencies the need to be prepared and to make any necessary decisions concerning their sectors on Thursday or Friday morning. Depending on the impact of the storm, the Department will make further decisions on Thursday night or Friday morning about whether to convene the NECG again on Friday. Storm Callum is due to arrive on the south-west coast this evening and will track north west, simultaneously affecting the west, the south and then the east coast with very high winds.

Will the Tánaiste circulate a note to the Members?

Yes. The preparations are under way.

There are travel plans. People need to know.

Absolutely.

People should try to make early decisions on the basis of the information provided to them. Following the meeting of the national emergency co-ordination group later, I expect the Minister will be very clear in his advice.