The humanitarian aid scheme announced by the Government on 5 February 2002 is being implemented by the Irish Red Cross. The scheme was introduced in recognition of the serious hardship caused to people from the severe weather events on Friday, 1 February, and Saturday, 2 February 2002, which resulted in serious flooding in various locations around the country. The scheme is designed to provide humanitarian assistance to those who suffered severe hardship and is not compensation for loss or damage suffered. The scheme applies to all people who were affected by the flooding which occurred on 1 and 2 February, 2002.