€10m in funding to be made available to uninsured flood victims
Community welfare officers have already identified a number of individuals they believe were particularly badly affected by the recent deluge where a month’s rainfall fell in 24 hours.
However, the new scheme, which will be means tested, is still open to other householders. It will not be open to homeowners who are covered by insurance or to commercial or business enterprises.
The scheme will be administered by the Department of Social Protection and it will provide “hardship alleviation assistance”, rather than full compensation, to householders.
It will provide funding towards the replacement of carpets, flooring, furniture and household appliances. According to the department, bedding will also be considered.
Social Protection Minister Joan Burton said “the Government recognises the devastation suffered by many families arising from these floods”.
“Payments are currently being made to families who need urgent financial assistance with basics such as food, clothing and bedding. This funding will continue to be disbursed to individuals and families as required,” she said.
“I am conscious that for some families it could be weeks if not months before the damage to their homes is fully apparent. I would like to reassure families that this humanitarian assistance scheme will be there for them in the months ahead,” she said.
Dublin South Central TD, Fine Gael’s Catherine Byrne, said ” people have literally been left with nothing”.
“In Lady’s Lane, Kilmainham, and in Harold’s Cross, residents have been forced to move out of their homes. Possessions have been destroyed and families have been devastated.”
Environment Minister Phil Hogan said the new group “will work in a speedy and focused way to ensure that those who require the assistance of the State following the severe flooding get it”.
