Volunteers taking the lead in tackling flooding – Hayes

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture and TD for Tipperary, Tom Hayes has said that local volunteers have taken the lead in tackling flooding. He has also commended local authorities, the civil defence and emergency services for their excellent work.

“Many homes, businesses and farms in Tipperary have experienced extreme flooding and loss in recent days and weeks. State agencies have come together to tackle these problems, but it is local volunteers who have excelled.

“This Government has announced investment of €340 million in flood defences, more than has been invested in the past 20 years. Funding is also being provided through the Department of Social Protection for flood damaged households and a new scheme has been established providing up to €20,000 for uninsured business premises which have been flood damaged.

“In addition an interdepartmental group has been charged with investigating the problem for individuals unable to get insurance owing to flooding. The Department of Agriculture is also providing emergency fodder supplies for approximately 80 farmers who have been worst affected by the floods.  This modest but important assistance is helping to ensure animal welfare problems due to the floods are avoided.

“However despite all of these measures there are the severe the effects of flooding cannot be avoided in all cases and it is the volunteers who must be highly commended.

“The reality of global warming is on our doorstep causing more rain, storms and unpredictable weather and it is the people of Tipperary and all the other affected areas who know too well the misery of it.

“The combined effort of all state agencies is the best way to tackle the issue of flooding, but we must also recognise the importance of local communities and volunteers.”