Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

As I indicated in my reply to Deputy Troy, this is a most serious matter. People have been very seriously affected by the rains overnight. The national emergency response co-ordinating committee is meeting and all relevant Departments are represented on that body. A statement will be made after that meeting. I will convey the Deputy's views to the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, although I do not know if he is available to attend the House.

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