Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 265: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will allocate moneys from the emergency flood relief fund to ease hardship to residents (details supplied) during this very difficult time. [12453/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Deputy will be aware that in the immediate aftermath of the severe flooding experienced in October 2011, the Government put in place a humanitarian aid scheme to assist the people affected by that flooding. Since these floods, the Department has been providing individuals with emergency payments to offset their immediate needs such as the purchase of food, clothing, fuel and household goods. Payments have also been made in respect of essential household items such as carpets, flooring, furniture and white goods. Funding towards alternative accommodation costs have also been made in certain cases depending on the circumstances of the families. Larger payments in respect of longer-term needs, such as assisting with the cost of repairing homes and making them habitable again are also being made.

Matters relating to emergency flood defence works or issues relating to insurance claims or settlements do not fall within the remit of the Department. Any person continuing to experience hardship as a result of the recent flooding should contact the local Department of Social Protection representative administering the supplementary allowance scheme who may be able to offer assistance.