New Plan Unveiled to Protect Ireland’s Communications Networks from Extreme Weather

Ireland - The Government has approved the publication of the Sectoral Adaptation Plan for Communication networks in line with the National Adaptation Framework. This is a key milestone in ensuring that Ireland’s telecommunication networks will be fit for our future climate challenges.

Over the past few years Ireland has witnessed the disruptive power of climate change. Two

prime examples, the flooding seen in Midleton in 2023 as result of Storm Babet, and the destructive winds of this year’s Storm Éowyn, have shown how quickly essential services can be put under strain. Those events brought significant damage to infrastructure and highlighted the vulnerability of communication networks when they are needed most. Those events served as a clear signal that resilience must be built into our systems today to protect society tomorrow.

This updated Sectoral Adaptation Plan for Communication Networks sets out how the sector will strengthen the resilience of Ireland’s communication networks in the face of climate challenges. It reflects a commitment to safeguarding essential services, protecting citizens, and supporting businesses as we transition to a climate-resilient future. The plan builds on strong collaboration between the Department, the regulator and industry partners, recognising that no single actor can achieve the SAP’s goals alone and a collective response is required. The recently formed Telecommunications Response and Resilience Group (T-RRG) represents an important first step towards delivering climate-resilient communication networks.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, said:

“Ireland is, and will continue to play, its part in tackling climate change. The science is clear and failure to act is a risk too great for our people, our society and our economy. This means progressing our work to cut greenhouse gas emissions in the coming years, while also adapting to the increasing impacts of climate change in our communities. Risks from climate change are faced by all of us, by all parts of society and all parts of the economy. More severe storm damage, flooding, drought and coastal erosion threaten our homes, businesses and infrastructure. We must continue to build climate resilience. Adapting to the escalating impacts of climate change is a central focus for us all.”

Minister Patrick O’Donovan, said:

“The Communication Networks SAP provides a strong framework to guide the work of the telecommunications sector over the coming years. The advent of Storm Éowyn during its preparation highlighted the importance of both having and implementing a strong plan. Whether it’s the challenges of Extreme Wind, Flooding or Coastal Erosion, this new plan will ensure that meaningful attention is given to addressing the physical resilience of our telecoms networks. I look forward to seeing progress across the SAP’s various actions over the coming years.”