Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I have made it clear, as I did yesterday when I visited areas affected by the flood, that the Government will see what it can do to assist in every way it can. Businesses are in the process of cleaning up and, as far as is possible, opening again, although some are, of course, waiting for the flood waters to abate in order that they can return to their premises. There are insurance issues to deal with but some householders have been flooded for the first time because of the rainfall and its effect on the river basins and they need immediate help with food, clothing and bedding. In some cases accommodation is provided by family members nearby and the HSE is stepping in to provide temporary accommodation where required. The situation is being monitored and when the flood waters abate and the clean-up operation takes place, people will assess the extent of the damage and to what extent it is covered by existing insurance arrangements. The immediate response of the Government has been to make sure a funding line is available to deal with the situation as it arises. Community welfare officers are making sure local, front-line knowledge is put to best effect to make sure people with immediate needs are helped in as speedy and flexible a way as possible.

The Minister for Finance is making inquiries as to the possibility of funds being made available from the EU solidarity fund. We will provide assistance in whatever way we can but agricultural relief such as a fodder scheme will have to be proceeded with in line with state aid rules, to which end we are seeking clearance from the Agriculture Directorate General. I met yesterday with businesspeople who had reopened their businesses that afternoon having been flooded over the weekend, while others were not in a position to do so. The position varies from business to business and depends on the type of business involved and how it has been affected. People are trying to get back to as normal a position as quickly as possible. We have made humanitarian aid available immediately for those most affected. There is a wider range of issues around flood management and various flood relief schemes such as those in Mallow, Carrick-on-Suir and Kilkenny have been effective. There is a further commitment to investment in these areas.

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