Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

That matter has to be decided. The Red Cross Society has been contacted today. It will carry out a preliminary assessment, as a result of which we will have to seek a Vote. Whereas thousands of houses were affected by the previous flooding incidents, the one positive element of this case is that we are talking about approximately 40 houses. The scale of the damage is in our favour.

In terms of the other situation, I am aware that the geologists' report is being drawn up. I was in discussions today with the Minister, Deputy Ó Cuív, who is looking into the situation. It will be very much an issue for Mayo County Council and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in terms of the major infrastructural response needed there. This is humanitarian aid to relieve hardship which will be administered quickly. I hope that within a matter of weeks money will be on the ground and that, hopefully, whatever other arrangements with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government will be on hand.