Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 March 2014
114. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if financial aid is available for businesses that experienced damage during the recent storms; if so, the way the businesses would apply for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12238/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn order to help communities affected by the recent severe weather, including flooding, the Government decided on 11 February that a sum of up to €70 million will be made available for a programme of repair and remediation works to public infrastructure. This includes roads, coastal protection, piers, harbours, amenities, tourism and community infrastructure. The funding is in addition to the €25 million which Government had already announced for Humanitarian Assistance schemes.
Damage to private businesses as a result of the recent severe weather and flooding is a matter for the owners of those businesses and their insurers, if applicable. As part of the response to the recent flooding events, the Department of Finance is currently undertaking a review of the availability of flood insurance cover. When the review is complete, it will be examined by the Minister for Finance who will report to Government on what measures, if any, are needed to improve the availability of flood insurance cover.
