Donegal flooding will be treated as a priority case- McHugh

Last night’s flooding in Donegal will be treated as a priority case, the Government Chief Whip has said.
Donegal TD and Minister of State Joe McHugh has said the Minister responsible for Office of Public Works will travel to Donegal later today to see for himself the damage caused overnight in the county by flooding.
Minister McHugh spoke overnight to officials in Minister Kevin Boxer Moran’s office and followed up this morning speaking directly with Minister Moran who confirmed he will visit Inishowen later today.
Minister McHugh said: “My first thoughts this morning are with the families affected by this severe weather event.
“I also want to thank the emergency services, Donegal County Council and the incredible volunteers who worked through the night to save property and to save lives.
“Inishowen has been badly affected with some roads and bridges washed away. Many roads across the east of the county are also affected.
“It is important now that an initial assessment of the damage caused is carried out and I’ve been in contact overnight with a number of officials including the Office of Public Works.
“I have spoken with Minister Moran who recognised immediately the concerns of people in Donegal and he will be travelling to the county later today to meet local people and see for himself the damage caused.
“I am very grateful to Minister Moran for his prompt response to my request.”
Inishowen Fine Gael Cllr Bernard McGuinness said: “I have never seen anything like it in all my life. The rain was relentless and torrential.
“Roads which never flood did this time. It was a weather event not seen here in living memory with 70mm of rain in just a few hours.
“Damage in many areas is severe. I want to pay tribute to local people, emergency services and council staff who worked through the night.
“I have also spoken to Minister Moran this morning and I am grateful he will be coming to Inishowen this evening.”
ENDS