Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 March 2018
671. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if specific funding will be allocated to Cavan County Council for the provision of services due to the additional costs on the local authority as a result of the recent storms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11558/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra672. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if specific funding will be allocated to Monaghan County Council for the provision of services due to the additional costs on the local authority as a result of the recent storms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11559/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 671 and 672 together.
Since 2009, my Department has made financial support available to assist local authorities in meeting the costs of clean-up and necessary immediate works associated with significant severe weather emergency events. This is in recognition of the exceptional nature of activities carried out by local authorities in responding to these types of emergencies and the fact that the costs of these un-programmed activities cannot be met from within existing resources.
In relation to the recent severe cold weather and snow that has caused widespread disruption in many parts of the country, my Department intends, when the response phase is concluded, to write to local authorities, including Cavan and Monaghan County Councils, inviting them to submit claims for recoupment of the exceptional costs involved in the response and clean-up.
Funding for repair of public infrastructure is undertaken by the relevant Departments in line with their sectorial responsibility. It is a matter for each Government Department to liaise directly with local authorities in relation to funding of repairs and restoration being carried out through the local government system.
