Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

We will have to assess those to see what the need is, but it is intended as a humanitarian fund for individuals and families. It is not our intention that the fund would be restricted geographically, but we will be doing an immediate assessment of the requirements. It is only when the floods abate that we will see the genuine need for replacement of goods and furniture. Urgent needs are being met now by community welfare officers. People can get exceptional and urgent needs payments to cover food, bedding and accommodation. The humanitarian fund will be able to help people in the longer term. In a few months time that fund will still be there for people.

The Deputy asked about the €2 million agricultural fund. The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food intends to target that fund as a support for fodder where particular difficulties arise.

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