Joan Burton: "national conversation" needed on severe weather

It is time for a “national conversation” on severe weather following weeks in which several parts of the country have been deluged by flood water, Tánaiste Joan Burton has said.

Such weather events are now happening with more frequency and greater severity, Ms Burton said during a visit to Co Kilkenny, where she met residents and business people whose properties were hit by water in recent days.

About €430m has been set aside by the Government for various flood relief schemes across the country and the Tánaiste said any funding needed for humanitarian relief will be provided.