Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 March 2010
160 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Finance his plans to offer any tax breaks to persons who wish to relocate on a permanent basis from their houses in areas of Galway which were recently flooded. [10009/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government does not operate a home relocation scheme to assist households who wish to relocate in the aftermath of a flooding event. I have no plans to introduce such a tax incentive measure.
However, in recognition of the problems faced by people in many areas of the country due to the recent flooding, the Government allocated an initial sum of €10m to fund a Humanitarian Assistance Scheme. The scheme is being administered by the Community Welfare Service of the Health Service Executive on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs.
The scheme, which is means tested, is intended to provide emergency financial assistance to households who are not in a position to meet costs for essential needs in the period immediately following flooding. The scheme covers emergency income support payments to those in need and damage to a person's home and its basic essential contents, such as: carpets, flooring, furniture, household appliances and bedding. Structural damage may also be considered.
I also announced in my Budget speech that in excess of €70 million will be provided over the remainder of 2009 and into 2010 to help those affected by recent flooding and fund work to minimise the risks of future incidents.
