Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has praised the dedication of NI Fire and Rescue Service crews, health and social care workers, and other emergency services personnel who responded to the challenges posed by Storm Éowyn.

"There are no words that can properly describe the debt of gratitude we owe to emergency services and the entire health and social care workforce," Minister Nesbitt said. "While we have been at home and following advice to stay safe, they have been dealing with call-outs and caring for people in hospitals, other facilities, and in the community. My heartfelt thanks goes to each and every one of them."

He acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the health system during the storm: "Good contingency planning by our Health and Social Care Trusts and our Primary and Community care partners, alongside excellent multi-agency working, has enabled the health system to rise to the challenge presented by the severe storm. Some parts of hospitals and other facilities have had to rely on generators, and it has been necessary to clear fallen trees and debris to enable staff to get into healthcare sites." 

Minister Nesbitt reassured the public that efforts are underway to reschedule appointments and procedures postponed due to the storm and urged patience as services resume normal operations. 

Justice Minister Naomi Long also commended the efforts of staff across the Justice system: "My sincere thanks go to all those who have put themselves at risk to ensure others are safe. The advice today was to stay home and stay safe if possible and yet staff and front-line workers across the Justice system including the NI Prison Service and the PSNI as response lead, continued to battle the elements to ensure the safety of others."

Minister Long acknowledged the challenges faced by the Justice system during the storm: "There have been many challenges as a result of the storm, and it will take some days to establish the true impact on our estates. An assessment of all our buildings will now be carried out and it is anticipated that normal service may resume from Monday, including the reopening of courts."

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