Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I compliment Senator Mansergh on raising this matter and thank him for sharing his time with me. I join Senator Mansergh in complimenting Deputy Parlon on his prompt response in meeting the people of Clonmel and seeing the difficulties at first hand.

I too am familiar with the difficulties which Clonmel has experienced in the past and is experiencing once again. It is sad to watch people being interviewed on television and to see the devastation they are suffering in their homes. It is bad enough to have such a thing happen on one occasion but its repetition is very discouraging. I am not sure I agree with the insurance companies. They cannot expect to make profits all the time. It is suggested that insurance cover might not continue when there is repetition and no corrective action has been taken.

It is important to identify the cause of the flooding. There are several theories and various forms of remedial action are being suggested. However, having suffered flooding on so many occasions we should have more answers at this stage. Owing to climatic changes, we must take it for granted that flooding will recur sooner rather than later.

I am glad the Minister of State is here this evening to respond to this matter. It is important to engage with the community and local authority and to do so urgently.