COWEN TO HIKE FUND

POLITICAL pressure looks likely to force Taoiseach Brian Cowen to increase the Government’s €10 million humanitarian fund while the Irish Red Cross has appealed for help to distribute hot meals and blankets to flood victims.

Mr Cowen yesterday accepted the €10m emergency aid package would not be enough. The Taoiseach will visit flood affected areas in the Midlands, Offaly and Westmeath today.

Mr Cowen warned the situation remained “critical” in parts of the country with more heavy rain still to come.