Colm Burke (Fine Gael)

I, too, join my colleagues in thanking the Leader and all those who contributed to this morning's debate. It was very constructive, and well done to everyone involved.

I raise an issue that was raised last week but it is important that it be raised again. It concerns the flooding in Cork and the need for decisive action to be taken on that matter. One of the problems experienced by people who have suffered severe damage is the delay in getting payment from insurance companies. I have suggested that on this occasion insurance companies would pay out a preliminary amount of €3,000 to all householders who are insured because people are having to rent alternative properties. Money is tight, and I ask that would be done by the insurance companies at an early date.

I am aware that the Minister was in Clonakilty and in Cork city yesterday. I ask the Leader to request the Minister to attend the House and outline how it is proposed to deal with what is a tragic situation for businesses, those in residential properties and, in some cases, those who do not have insurance. If at all possible I ask that moneys should be made available for people who could not get insurance and that some support would be given at this stage. I ask that the Minister come to the House to outline how it is proposed to deal with this matter.

With regard to the insurance companies, I ask for them to be requested to deal with the issue immediately rather than drag it on for six, 12 or 18 months, as has happened previously.