Minister witnesses flood devastation first-hand
Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith today witnessed first hand the devastating impact of the recent floods on farmers in Co Galway.
Visiting a number of farms that felt the brunt of the past week’s floods, he said he was anxious to see how a fodder aid package could help those most in need.
The Irish Farmers’ Association warned farmers were fighting a losing battle despite emergency supplies being delivered to isolated farmhouses.
The Minister commended farmers, organisations and State agencies for their outstanding work to date.
“The Government is continuing to do all in its power, in both urban and rural communities, to alleviate the worst affects of this unprecedented flooding crisis,” he said.
Cabinet ministers earlier indicated further financial assistance will be made to victims on top of €12m already pledged by Government.
The Irish Red Cross and the St Vincent de Paul Society have also set up special funds for financial donations.
The Defence Forces said almost 100 soldiers in 24 support vehicles remain in Cork and Athlone providing emergency assistance to civil authorities for flood relief.
Homes have being evacuated in Glasson, Co Westmeath, and army personnel are providing a bus service for people stranded in the county.
And boiled water notices remain in place in north Cork city and Limerick.
Meanwhile residents in Clonfert in Co Galway are now trying to save their homes as waters rise.
Elsewhere Clare County Council revealed that while the ESB will not be releasing any additional water from Parteen Weir overnight residents remain on flood alert.
“We are awaiting the effects of high Spring tides and additional rain fall which are both due early next week,” said a spokesman.
“The large volumes of water causing problems in Galway also has to come down stream.
“The people who have already evacuated remain evacuated and others remain on alert.”
