Ministers heckled as they survey ruined homes

The Government pledged a €10m emergency fund forcommunities worst hit by flooding, but it has accepted it will not be enough to meet people’s needs.

Minister of State Brian Hayes said a “new defence scheme” will be implemented to upgrade the country’s flood defences.

Finance Minister Michael Noonan reiterated the Government’s commitment to flood-hit communities, adding: “We’re not going to leave the public in the lurch.”