Minister Joe McHugh
Fine Gael Minister Joe McHugh, has said that the provisions of €10 million extra for the flooding clean-up fund, as well as a new Shannon authority and other measures will come as a relief to those affected by flooding.
“The last number of weeks have been extremely difficult for communities as the wettest December on record, and the wettest at Malin Head since 1885, has resulted in severe flooding in many areas.
“The Government has put in place a number of measures to assist those who have been affected. These measures include increasing clean-up funding for local authorities from €8 million to €18 million.
“The Red Cross Scheme established to assist small businesses that are not insured against flooding will be extended to include sports and community facilities. Up to €20,000 is available to eligible premises. The first stage provides a contribution of up to €5,000 and, depending on the scale of damage, further support of up to €15,000 is available. The application form can be downloaded at www.redcross.ie and people can also the Red Cross headline at 01-6424600.
“A range of measures have also been put in place by the Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney, to assist farmers impacted by flooding. A new €2 million Fodder Replacement Scheme will be launched and plans are in place to develop supports for farmers in particular hardship. Farmers with significant fodder losses or animal welfare concerns can call the Department’s helpline on 076-1064408 or 01-6072379.
“Farm family homes will also be eligible under the Humanitarian Aid scheme. Information and applications forms in relation to the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme are available Department of Social Protection offices and from the Department’s website.
“The Government’s capital plan has set aside €430 million to deliver flood protection schemes, meaning more will be spent on flood protection schemes in the next five years than in the last 20 years.
“The Government is taking immediate action to address the short term problems being experienced in many parts of the country. We are also implementing measures to prepare and plan for the future.”
