Government to provide €8m for Storm Desmond clean-up
By Daniel McConnell Political Editor
Environment Minister Alan Kelly has announced that he will provide local councils with €8m to pay for the cost of the clean-up after Storm Desmond.
He said that claims of €6.2m have so far been received from councils and the final cost is likely to run to tens of millions.
Ten local authorities in affected areas have submitted claims Mr Kelly said.
With many counties affected by the impact of severe flooding, Mr Kelly said the funds are been made available given the exceptional nature of the clean up.
The funds will be used to cover overtime costs for those council workers who were on the front line in combating the floods.
The funds announced do not include the cost of repairing roads damaged in recent days and it is expected that additional funds will be channelled through in due course.
Speaking today Mr Kelly said: "Our hearts go out to those who have been affected by recent flooding. At any time of the year, to be affected by flooding is awful but particularly at Christmas time".
