Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Buckley for the opportunity to discuss this issue. All public representatives, including him, are dealing with this on the ground. When an emergency like that arises, the Department and the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management co-ordinates the immediate response, which is an emergency response.

The Department of Social Protection is providing funding to households, and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is providing funding to businesses. Those systems are up and running. Furthermore, the local authorities themselves will make proposals on interim measures and work in conjunction with the OPW.

On the question the Deputy is posing, there is a system in place to deal with emergencies like that in Midleton. What occurred happened in such a dramatic fashion and services kicked in. It was a very difficult time, particularly for the businesses and the residents. However, there are structures in place. If the Deputy has thoughts on what he feels would be an enhancement, I suggest he make them known to my Department. It is obviously under the remit of the OPW, but more particularly local authorities, whose staff are on the ground. One is always seeking to enhance but there are structures to deal with the emergency response, involving all the stakeholders. It is a very traumatic time for the people of Midleton, particularly coming up to Christmas. When I was there, the people's resolve was unquestionable. I pay tribute to the people themselves and the providers of the services that kicked in. I was in the town for a day and the people were amazing.

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