Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)

This is the not the first time we have experienced this sort of flooding. On 31 July and 1 August 2008, Newcastle West was flooded by 6 ft. of water. The Taoiseach did not visit and while the Minister of State, Deputy Martin Mansergh, came to observe the damage, the promises he made have not yet been fulfilled. Once the water recedes, the promises made by the Government tonight will be forgotten. The people of Newcastle West continue to suffer the effects of last year's flooding and they must be included in any compensation scheme. Up to 200 properties, including businesses, were damaged at a cost estimated at €40 million. Many houses were uninsured because they were owned by elderly people or for other reasons. The Government did not raise a finger to help these people, however. The idea of community welfare officers is a laugh in such circumstances. The people of Newcastle West continue to suffer.

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