Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

I will investigate that issue. Until the Deputy gave me the information I had no information on that issue. I will investigate that and come back to the Deputy. It would be outrageous if a flood alert was issued to the business community but not to householders. This is the first time it has been brought to my attention.

Deputy Eoghan Murphy referred to the lack of communication between the local authority and the agencies. That is his view and I appreciate that view. However, very substantial work was done last night by crews, local authorities, the Garda Síochána and Civil Defence personnel across the city. In some circumstances, if these events are so dramatic and so vast in terms of the amount of rainfall in one day, it is difficult to have the perfect solution. I agree with him that we need to learn lessons from this and we need an immediate review to see what went right and what went wrong because in the first instance it is the responsibility of the local authority - those on the ground - not central Government. If the local authority is seeking additional help we will look upon that request sympathetically.

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