Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I ask the Minister of State to elaborate on his earlier comments on storm damage in order that I can be sure I understand him correctly. The estimate for damage is in the region of €65 million, with counties Clare and Galway accounting for the bulk of the cost, at €41 million. I understand the remedial process is being led by the local authorities and the Minister of State was right to acknowledge their efforts in difficult circumstances. How will the €65 million be provided?

In the course of his response I ask the Minister of State to refer to an old chestnut of mine, namely, insurance for houses in Dublin and elsewhere across the country which previously have been flooded. Many parts of my constituency such as East Wall have experienced flooding on numerous occasions and residents in these areas now find it impossible to insure their homes.