David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his response. Has consideration been given to setting up an appeals mechanism? In other words, a mechanism whereby a second look can be given to those who were not successful the first time round, for whatever reason. As far as I am aware, most schemes have an in-built appeals mechanism whereby an independent person reviews the application to see if there is something that could be looked at in the event of an appeal. I am not aware of one in this particular case. Perhaps the Minister could consider it.

I also wish to raise the issue of under-insurance. As the Minister said, this was exceptional, devastating and unexpected. The Minister and I have been in business premises where water came up 3 ft or 4 ft and all stock was destroyed. Some of these premises had a lot of Christmas stock. The loss was huge in a small number. Insurance cover was not enough because what happened was so unexpected. Would it be possible to give consideration to helping businesses in cases like that?

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