Much greater urgency needed on flood relief

Fianna Fáil Environment Spokesperson and Laois/Offaly TD Barry Cowen has called on Ministers to show a much greater sense of urgency in addressing the needs of people impacted by the recent storms and floods. He also called on Government to prioritise an application for emergency relief funding from the EU Solidarity Fund.

Deputy Cowen commented, “All across the country tonight there are people coping with the most horrendous conditions in their homes and many others worrying about the ongoing bad weather and the risk it poses them.

“I believe that we need to see a much greater sense of urgency than we have seen to date from the Government. Ministers must move quickly to reassure those who have had their properties badly damaged that help will be available.

“Today’s comments from Junior Minister Brian Hayes to the effect that he expects funding will be made available at some stage are welcome in so far as they go, but they gave no sense that he or his colleagues understand the urgency of the situation.

“I would like the Finance Minister to confirm an application to the Commission’s Solidarity Fund as soon as possible and a straightforward commitment that additional help will be made available to those citizens who are having to deal with misery of a flooded home.”