Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 116: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the financial resources such as humanitarian aid, rebuilding funds and refurbishment funds being made available to residents and businesses flooded in the Dublin region in the past week, separate to supplementary welfare allowances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33594/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Government in recognising the devastation suffered by many families arising from the recent floods has agreed to set up a Humanitarian Assistance Scheme with an allocation of up to €10 million. The scheme will provide means-tested financial support to people who have suffered damage to their homes as a result of the recent flooding. The main details of the Humanitarian Assistance Fund are as follows:

- It will be administered on the ground by staff from the Department of Social Protection (former Community Welfare Officers),

- It will provide hardship alleviation assistance, as opposed to full compensation, to householders affected by the flooding.

- Damage to a person's home and its basic contents, such as carpets, flooring, furniture, household appliances and bedding, will be the main criteria. Structural damage may also be considered.

- Eligibility will be subject to a means test.

- Assistance will not be given for losses which are covered by insurance.

- Commercial and business losses will not qualify for humanitarian assistance.

In addition, the Government has also established a cross-Departmental/Agency Working Group, chaired by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, to oversee the State's collective response to those affected by the flooding. The working group will identify any gaps that may exist within existing services to address the consequences of the flooding for individuals, families and communities. If additional services are required the Group will report to Government with proposals to address these issues.