Bitter disappointment as Mayo households see power restoration pushed back further

MANY households in Mayo went to bed 'bitterly disappointed' last night as the reconnection date for their electricity supply has been pushed back to February 9.

Ballyhaunis Councillor Alma Gallagher highlighted the matter last night after a 'blanket message' issued to customers and she will be raising the ongoing issues at a municipal meeting this afternoon.

Councillor Gallagher has also asked for more localised, transparent information for residents.

Areas affected in last night's update from the ESB include Gurteen, Holywell, Johnstown, Cloontarriff, Churchfield, and many more areas in Knock, Claremorris and Ballyhaunis, she said.

“Everyone received the same blanket message stating that power will be restored on the 9th,” she explained.

Councillor Gallagher told constituents: “Please know that I am actively communicating with the ESB daily, sharing specific details including eircode and MPRN for homes. The information I receive in return can vary greatly, but I will continue to make these representations each morning until power is restored.

“I appreciate all the offers for generators and emergency accommodations, but I understand that many residents prefer to stay in their own homes or circumstances with vulnerable children do not allow them to consider these options.”

She added: “It's crucial that ESB Networks provides us with more localised and transparent information moving forward. Right now, residents are left in the dark, both literally and in terms of communication and it is not good enough.

“Tomorrow (Wednesday) we also have our first municipal district meeting. For many in the dark tonight this is of cold comfort but I will certainly be ensuring our voices are heard.”