‘I gave the money — it wasn’t used’

AS THE first anniversary of the devastating floods that hit Cork approaches, I would like to set the record straight on what was done at government level to deal with the aftermath, and to outline the consequences of dealing with such situations as demanded by “soapbox” politicians from opposition parties eager to peddle their “snakeoil” for political gain.

First, what was done. Following the floods, I visited Cork to view the damage and to speak with city officials to see what was required to get the city back on its feet.

I met with the then Cork city manager Joe Gavin and assured him any and all costs incurred by the city that my department had control over (your tax money) would be forthcoming.