€367,000 already paid out in flood relief — and more to come

More than €367,000 hasalready been paid out for flood relief claims, but the Department of Social Protection said more claims are likely.

Latest figures from the Depart on claims met by the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme show that, as of last Friday, financial assistance had been provided for 534 claims.

It follows 480 home visits to individuals identified as requiring support. More than 150 home visits were made in Limerick City, which suffered bad flooding a month ago.

The amount of money paid out so far is understood to be related to basic necessities and items that have been found to need replacing.

However, a spokesperson for the department said ‘phase 3’ claims — linked to issues such as structural damage — would take some time to be determined.

“Stage 3 is to identify what longer term financial support or works are required,” said the spokesperson.

“It could take several months before this stage of response commences and this involves a cross-departmental/agency response. Works carried out can include plastering, dry-lining, re-laying of floors, electrical rewiring and painting.

“Some claims for assistance in relation to stage 3 have been received and processed. It is expected that the majority of future claims received will be under this category.”

Areas such as Ballynanty in Limerick and Passage East in Waterford were the focus of emergency clinics in the aftermath of the serious flooding in early February, with community welfare officers carrying out door-to-door visits.

The department does not provide any financial assistance regarding items that are already the subject of home insurance claims.

Meanwhile, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Brian Hayes, has announced where the €19.6m funding for the repair of damaged coastal protection and flood defence will be allocated.

Co Clare will receive a maximum of €8,276,433 for coastal protection and flood defence repairs, while Co Mayo will receive just over €4.2m.

Kerry will receive just over €1.2m, as will Co Wexford, while Co Galway and Waterford will both receive a maximum of €1.1m each.

Co Cork will get just over €1m.

Co Donegal will receive €662,000, with other areas such as Fingal, Co Dublin; Sligo, Louth, and Meath also receiving various amounts of funding.