asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether his attention has been directed to the widespread and destructive flooding that has taken place in certain districts in North Kerry, with the result that many people are now homeless; whether the Government intends to come to the help of those affected, what form that help will take and when will it be available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Flooding in Kerry.
I am aware of the extent of the flooding which has occurred in North Kerry, near Listowel, having directed an immediate inspection to be made in order to ascertain the full facts. The question of the immediate alleviation of the distress occasioned has been promptly dealt with by the Kerry Board of Health and Public Assistance who have provided temporary accommodation and assistance for all the families affected, and by a local relief committee which has been formed and which has received from the Red Cross Society a contribution of £200. It is necessary to emphasise that the question of the further steps to deal with conditions created by the flooding is not mainly one for the Department of Local Government and Public Health but will be examined by that Department in conjunction with the other Departments and interests concerned.
Would the Minister regard the position as very urgent, because the people there are very uneasy about the future? If at any time the Minister is in a position to form any plans, after his consultation with the other Departments, will he give an assurance that he will lose no time in putting them before the Government for adoption, and will he say whether he will recognise that, although the local people have come generously to subscribe, it is realised there that such local assistance will be entirely inadequate to deal with the situation?
I can give the Deputy an assurance that, as soon as it is possible to formulate a plan to deal with this position, steps will be taken expeditiously.