The Great Cork Flood
The last week or so has been a living hell for many Corkonians, with the River Lee breaching its banks and invading our city. The deluge reached as far afield as Grand Parade in Cork City centre, flooding expensive works of art in the Glucksman Gallery in University College Cork en route, along with other parts of the college. Dozens of businesses across the city have suffered, and some will not see the New Year in a commercial capacity. A significant number of houses have been flooded, their occupants unlikely to be able to return home for Christmas. The misery continues for 18,000 households left without water in the wake of the crisis. While the finger of blame is being pointed at various parties, it has also brought out the best in people. Acts of kindness such as checking up on neighbours, embarking on water and food runs for those unable to do so and simply pitching in where necessary have brought many back to earth from the height of selfishness during the boom years. While the damage may be bad, it has renewed, in conjunction with the recession, the sense of community that disappeared during the good times.
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