A new one-hour documentary examines the risk of flooding in Ireland’s coastal and low-lying areas due to rising sea levels, increased rainfall and the intensity of storms.
Tuilte, which means ‘flood’ in Irish, will screen personal stories of people affected by climate change in Ireland and the recent floods in Galway, Donegal, Antrim and Monaghan. The new documentary will be broadcast on TG4 iPlayer on February 21st at 9:30pm.
The hour-long documentary ‘Tuilte’ produced by Dearcán Media points out that at least 40% of Ireland’s population lives within 5 km / 3.1 miles of the coast. It is estimated that by 2050 70,000 addresses in Ireland will be at risk of coastal flooding.
The documentary makers spoke to residents in County Donegal who were severely affected by the August 2017 floods. They also interviewed Niall McNelis, a Galway Labor councilor and businessman who owns a jewelery shop in Galway city’s Spanish Arch. The area experienced six severe floods during the company’s 21 years of operation, causing damage to property and inventory. McNelis has opened up about the toll this has taken on his mental health in recent years.
The filmmakers also profile communities seeking to implement sustainable practices to reduce the effects of flooding and improve water management.
These stakeholders include Trish Murphy and the Inishowen Trust, who discuss “innovative nature-based solutions to ‘slow the flow'” in the documentary. We also interview Belfast environmental activist Aaron Kelly. He is on a mission to rewild the Black Mountains, providing a canopy for wildlife and absorbing rain during heavy rains.
Connemara-based artist Lionach Ní Neill also revealed her fears for the future in an interview and is co-founder of the Corrib Beo Partnership, a voluntary organization promoting sustainable development in the Corrib catchment. Michael O Sineide also spoke in an interview.
BNN said, “From the homes and livelihoods lost to the emotional scars left behind, this documentary does not shy away from the human cost of these disasters. “There is evidence of an indomitable will.” Of those who decided to rise above the water.
They added: “‘Tuilte’ journeys through a story of devastation and recovery, while also looking to the future and highlighting the urgent need for ambitious action to mitigate the effects of climate change. Interviews with people like Niall McNelis, Lionach nee Neil, and more.” and Michael Ó Sineide not only provide insight into the challenges being faced, but also the innovative solutions being pursued. ”
Watch the trailer for TG4’s ‘Tuilte’ here.
*”Tuilte” will be broadcast on TG4 from 9:30 pm on Wednesday, February 21st, and will be available for viewing on TG4’s iPlayer.