Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Senator spoke about the need for flood relief funds. The Government will not be found wanting if it becomes an issue. It is not only down to ESB management. A complex range of issues are involved. The problem may be solved in Athlone and Lanesborough but then Limerick or somewhere else is flooded. It must be solved everywhere. Senator Daly made the point forcefully that it is a major and complex issue. The management of the River Shannon waterway is enormously difficult. For the moment we can only hope the rain stops. The flooding is very extensive. Athlone's large shopping centre, the Golden Island, is now flooded.