A major new research report has called for a more coordinated all-island approach to emergency planning, climate adaptation and disaster recovery, warning that the increasing impacts of climate change require a shift from simply rebuilding after disasters to “Building Back Better” (BBB).
The report, “Build Back Better: Advancing a Focused All-Island and Cross-Border Approach to Planning for Recovery in Strategic Emergency Management,” was commissioned under the Shared Island Research Programme and undertaken by the International Centre for Local and Regional Development (ICLRD) in partnership with Monaghan County Council and the Cross Border Emergency Management Group (CBEMG).
The research examines how Ireland and Northern Ireland can strengthen post-incident recovery, resilience and preparedness in response to increasingly frequent and severe climate-related emergencies, particularly flooding and wildfires
The report’s key findings highlights that disasters do not recognise borders and that stronger cooperation between agencies North and South is essential to protect communities, infrastructure and businesses. While significant progress has been made through structures such as the CBEMG and existing mutual aid arrangements, further strategic alignment is required.
Key findings include:
- Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of flooding and wildfire risks across the island.
- Recovery planning must move beyond restoring communities to their pre-disaster condition and instead focus on long-term resilience and adaptation.
- Local authorities play a crucial role in building resilience but require stronger support, clearer responsibilities and sustainable funding mechanisms.
- The psychological impacts of disasters on affected communities require greater recognition and more consistent support services
- Spatial planning and land-use management must become central tools in reducing future flood and wildfire risks
Drawing on experiences from major flood events in the North-West and Eastern Corridor of the island, alongside emerging wildfire challenges, the report identifies growing examples of community resilience, improved inter-agency cooperation and innovative local responses
However, researchers found ongoing challenges around communication, coordination, funding, maintenance of flood mitigation measures, wildfire preparedness and post-incident recovery supports.
The report sets out 20 recommendations aimed at governments, public agencies, local authorities and emergency services, including:
- Closer integration of emergency planning, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation across the island
- Strengthening legislative frameworks for flood and wildfire management.
- Providing dedicated long-term funding for flood protection and resilience measures.
- Embedding flood and wildfire risk management into planning policy and landscape management.
- Clarifying responsibility for post-incident psychological supports.
- Developing policies for managed relocation and recovery where communities remain at significant future risk.
Launching the report Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council, Councillor Aidan Campbell, said: “I am proud to support the launch of this important all-island research. The challenges posed by climate change, severe weather events and major emergencies require a collective response that extends beyond administrative and jurisdictional boundaries. This report demonstrates the value of collaboration, shared learning and long-term planning in building resilience for our communities.”
Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive, Monaghan County Council, Robert Burns, highlighted the important role of local government in recovery and resilience: “Local authorities are at the centre of community resilience. We see first-hand the impacts that extreme weather and major emergencies have on our communities. We also see the incredible strength of our residents, volunteers and emergency responders. This report provides a practical roadmap for ensuring that recovery efforts are matched by long-term planning, investment and preparedness.”
Dermot Brannigan, Chief Fire Officer, Monaghan County Council, said: “As emergency management professionals, we know that resilience is built through partnership. The strong relationships that exist across the island between local authorities, emergency services and communities provide an excellent foundation. This report shows how we can build on those relationships to better prepare for the challenges ahead.”
The report concludes that climate resilience requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, combining strategic planning, community engagement, cross-border cooperation and long-term investment.
Researchers argue that by adopting a Building Back Better approach, Ireland and Northern Ireland can reduce future risks, strengthen communities and ensure recovery efforts deliver lasting social, environmental and economic benefits.