1570. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures his Department is taking to assist communities in dealing with heatwaves, and periods of drought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57494/26]

My Department undertakes the Lead Government Department role, as set out in the Strategic Emergency Management (SEM) Framework (2017), in relation to the coordination of national level responses to severe weather events and other emergencies, where warranted. My Department's National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) undertakes this role and works closely with local authorities, Government Departments, utilities and other agencies depending on the nature of the event.

While current weather conditions have not necessitated the convening of a National Emergency Co-ordination Group, the NDFEM has been liaising closely with colleagues in the Departments of Agriculture, Department of Defence, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, local authorities and their Fire Services, and other responding agencies. This coordination supports the ongoing efforts to protect life, property and natural habitats in responding to wildland and forest fires at locations including Slievenamon, Killarney National Park, the Wicklow Mountains and elsewhere across the country.

My Department is also working closely with Met Éireann to monitor forecast weather conditions and to assess any potential impacts on water supplies with Uisce Éireann.

The NDFEM will continue to monitor weather with Met Éireann and coordinate any necessary actions with the Principal Response Agencies.