Charity should begin in Limerick immediately

Limerick is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Dublin, yet we heard on a Sunday afternoon, and again on Monday, mid-morning, and at 3pm, on the news bulletin, that a minister was travelling to the city, to personally inspect the flood damage.

The same minister gave an interview on Monday morning, to say that no decision would be made as regards funding, meaning that no State aid would be available for emergency services, householders or business owners in Limerick, until an assessment was carried out, and findings presented to him, by the heads of all the local services in the city.

Again, he stressed a full assessment, three times, during what was a short news item.

This surely is in contrast to our swift pledging of donations when flooding, and other natural disasters, occur around the globe, in other countries.

Then, Irish ministers, with a thirst for travel, quickly announce substantial funding aid to the inhabitants, and dubious Government, of some far-flung land that likely has a higher GNP than Ireland.

TJ Fay

National Organiser

People’s Movement for Change

Virginia

Co Cavan