Public urged to be cautious as flood risk remains

The public have been encouraged to remain vigilant as flooding on roads and high waves along coastal areas remain a risk to safety across the country.

With water levels still increasing along the River Shannon and in other areas, many homes and businesses are still at risk of flooding in the coming days.

The government is now finalising the details of a €5million fund for businesses which have been hit by flooding and may not have been able to secure insurance because of where they are situated in flood prone areas.

Minister Simon Coveney is expected to shortly give details on the application process and the caps on claims which can be made through the scheme.

This afternoon, Tom Barry of the Department of Environment has warned that there is now a risk that the public may become complacent which could lead to accidents.

Mr Barry said: “This situation has been ongoing now for a number of days and one of the things we want to reemphasise at this points is the public safety aspect in affected areas,” said Mr Barry who chaired the National Coordination Group which met again this morning.

“We are concerned that because the situation has been ongoing now for the better part of a week that some complacency may set in.

“We are still concerned about public safety in the parts of the country affected by flooding.

He said the public should listen to radio for safety updates on flooding and coastal areas.

“We understand waves at sea are quite high currently, safety on roads and those affected by waters is still a concern and safety on farms and flooded lands is still a concern,” Mr Barry said.