Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 89: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the flood relief scheme for persons who need financial assistance due to the damage caused during the recent flooding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32597/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Government is critically aware of the devastation suffered by people in many areas of the country as a result of the recent floods. My Department is playing a key part in the Government's response to these events.

Under the supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) scheme, my Department makes exceptional needs payments (ENP) to help meet essential, once-off, exceptional expenditure, which cannot be met out of people's weekly income. In addition to the payment of ENPs, my Department also makes urgent needs payments, which can be made to persons who would not normally be entitled to SWA. The aftermath of flooding is one situation where urgent needs payments can be made.

Since the floods earlier this week, my Departmental Officials (former Community Welfare Officers) are providing individuals with emergency payments to offset their immediate needs such as the purchase of food, clothing, fuel and household goods. My officials have made house to house calls to individuals they have identified as being vulnerable at this difficult time. In addition special clinics have been established to offer help to affected households.

Any person experiencing hardship as a result of the recent flooding should contact the local Department of Social Protection representative administering the SWA scheme who may be able to offer assistance.