One local hotel became a 'safe haven' during storm disruptions

Roscommon's Abbey Hotel became an impromptu community hub and safe haven for locals amid the disruptions of Storm Eowyn.

Many homes in the area lost power, which affected people's ability to complete basic tasks, including communicating via email, or powering their phones.

"Our trusty generator kept us going, and we were able to open our doors to the local Roscommon community when they needed it most. From early morning we welcomed hundreds of people through our doors," said Geraldine Grealy, Marketing & Public Relations Manager at the Abbey Hotel.

"Some local patrons used our facilities to charge mobile phones and check in with family when mobile signal was down, while others relied on our wifi to stay connected.

"We were a hub for remote workers, a warm and safe haven for families with small children, and a base for healthcare workers staying nearby to ensure they could get to work.

"We offered a warm and welcoming space for patrons, whilst ensuring that those needing power for medical devices or storage of medicines were looked after."

One casualty the hotel suffered was the loss of the 200-year-old beech tree, which previously stood at the entrance to the hotel.

Ms Grealy acknowledged the tremendous support and hard work of the hotel staff, many of whom stayed overnight to look after the emergency response residents.

"This is what being part of a community is all about during times like this,” Ms Grealy added.