TUAM Fire Brigade helped supply Greenpark Nursing Home with water over the weekend.Photo: Greenpark Nursing Home.

Tuam fire crews come to nursing homes’ rescue

Tuam and Ballyglunin facilities needed water

TUAM Fire Brigade proved to be saviours for two nursing homes amidst the water supply disruptions in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn.

Brooklodge Nursing Home in Ballyglunin and Greenpark Nursing Home in Tuam have thanked the local fire brigade teams for delivering vital water during the disruption.

Brooklodge Nursing Home has been without power since Friday and is operating on generators to keep the place up and running while their water supply was also disrupted. Owner Michael Moran told The Tuam Herald that he is grateful to the fire brigade and local farmers for their swift response and support during these difficult times. “We have managed to keep the home up and running with everyone’s help and without alarming the residents,” said Michael.

“We are buying diesel for the generator every day and bottles of water for drinking. Our water supply was fine until Sunday, but then we faced some disruptions and had to ask the local fire brigade to come in and fill the tank upstairs.”

Michael was also grateful for the help offered by local farmers to clear the road on Friday.

“After the storm, the roads were blocked with fallen trees, and our staff couldn’t go out or come in. We got a lot of support from local farmers.

A total of 44 residents are currently living in the Brooklodge Nursing Home.

“We have opened our doors to anyone who needs a place to stay warm. Unfortunately, we don’t have any empty beds to offer,” added Michael.

Greenpark Nursing Home in Tuam also faced water supply problems and had to ask the fire brigade to come to their rescue.

Director of Greenpark Brian McNamara told The Tuam Herald that they were without water, but retained their power supply.

He said: “The water supply ran out for the whole town, and we were without water for one day. Thankfully, the local fire brigade came to our aid and helped us out.

“We have never had a storm like this before, and many people have been isolated in their homes. We got many calls from the community but could take only three people who were without power in their homes.

“People are isolated in their homes without electricity and water, and they are looking for help and support. We got a few inquiries as well,” Brian added.