Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

It has been harrowing to see the damage to houses, businesses and farms and how upset people are in the areas affected. I compliment the staff of the local authorities and emergency services on their work. My home town of Boyle, Carrick-on-Shannon, which is virtually under water, and Rooskey have been dealing with this for the last four or five days. The Minister visited all parts of the country but the people of the towns I mentioned were hurt and upset that he did not visit that area to see the damage that has been done. I hope he and the Taoiseach will visit the area at the earliest opportunity. The people genuinely felt let down that the Minister did not come further north of the Shannon.

Many people have said that locks should have been opened. They want an independent investigation of what happened, and I hope that will take place. A flood management system must be provided in the area. People are very concerned that there will be no compensation. I hope that something similar to what was organised with the Irish Red Cross in 1995 will be put in place to provide compensation to the people affected. They need hope and help. Deputies and councillors travelling through the area tried to give them hope in this desperate situation. I urge the Minister to come to the area at the earliest opportunity to see the damage.

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