The cost and impact of flooding influenced by climate change and environmental degradation is the focus of a new documentary due to be broadcast on TG4 this month.
“Tuilte”, an hour-long documentary by Dearcán Media, examines just how vulnerable coastal and low-lying regions are to sea level rise, together with increased rainfall and storm events.
It points out that at least 40% of the population lives within 5 km of the coast, and it is estimated 70,000 Irish addresses are at risk of coastal flooding by 2050.
The documentary looks at the impact that flooding has already had on various communities throughout the country, meeting residents in Donegal who suffered serious damage in the storms of August 2017.
It also profiles communities trying to implement sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of flooding and to improve water management.
Among those interviewed are Trish Murphy and the Inishowen Trust, who discuss “innovative nature-based solutions to ‘Slow the Flow’”.
It also interviews Belfast environmentalist Aaron Kelly, who is on a mission to rewild the Black Mountain, providing a tree canopy for wildlife which will also soak up rain during heavy rainfall.
Galway Labour councillor and businessman Niall McNelis
The documentary focuses on the experience of Galway Labour councillor and businessman Niall McNelis.
His jewellery shop sits just beside the Spanish Arch, and it has been badly flooded six times over 21 years of business, damaging the property and stock each time.
McNelis speaks of the toll it has taken on his mental health in recent years.
It interviews Connemara-based artist Ríonach Ní Néill who reveals her fears for the future, and Micheál Ó Cinnéide a co-founder of Corrib Beo partnership, a voluntary group which promotes the sustainable development of the Corrib catchment.
Tuilte will be broadcast on Wednesday, February 21st at 9.30pm on TG4
