Last Wednesday we had statements on the extent of the damage done by the storm in Ireland and the associated costs. At that very time there was a hurricane-like storm raging through County Kerry, whipping roofs off schools, nursing homes and private homes and knocking trees in the national park, on golf courses and across every road in the county. We were a little premature with that debate and I imagine we will be back to the topic again. We are quick to criticise organisations when they do bad. Therefore, I want to praise and commend organisations such as Iarnród Éireann. I travelled last Wednesday night from Dublin to County Kerry. It took us nine hours, but we got home safely. In fairness to Iarnród Éireann, the company supplied snacks and beverages - bar the alcohol - on the train free to passengers, which was good form. As it did not collect the tickets, I imagine it was at a significant loss for that night. The same goes for ESB Networks. We have had no power in County Kerry and some are still without power since last Wednesday.

We had three days without power, which was a severe inconvenience. Staff from ESB Networks - they brought people in from Northern Ireland also - have worked day and night to restore power to all the homes in the county. I wish to compliment them, the council staff and eircom for all the work they have done. When a red alert is forecast such as occurred last Wednesday in County Kerry and Cork, we need to have a policy in place for schools because we cannot have the children come to school in the morning and then leave it to the principals to try to get them home safely and contact all the parents to come and collect them. It is not fair on the principals. When the Minister for Education and Science has time, perhaps he might come here for a debate on the issue. We might be able to draw up a policy whereby parents would know that schools would be closed in advance when a red alert occurred in order that they could make alternative arrangements.