FF Spokesperson Meets EU Commissioner Over Funding For Storm Relief

Ireland should be entitled to EU funding to help communities in the wake of damage caused by severe weather, Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Transport, Tourism and Sport, Timmy Dooley has said.

Dooley is in Strasbourg along with MEPs Pat Gallagher and Brian Crowley to meet with EU Commissioner for Regional Development, Johannes Hahn to discuss the damage and devastation caused in recent weeks due to flooding and high winds.

"This morning we had a very positive meeting with Commissioner Hahn in Strasbourg, where we presented the case for Ireland to receive funding under the EU Solidarity Fund," Dooley has said in a statement.

Adding: "Commissioner Hahn was made fully aware of the extent of the damage caused to many communities, especially in cities, towns and coastal areas.

"We also explained the uniqueness of the recent storms compared to previous events and how so many local communities were affected. We also emphasised that the disaster was regional in nature, which is a prerequisite to achieve funding."

Deputy Dooley also presented the report prepared by Clare County Council on the initial assessment of the damage to the county.

"Clare County Council has estimated that the county suffered over €23 million worth of damage alone. Places like Lahinch were severely affected and these communities need some respite. I am calling on the Government to immediately begin essential repair work in cities, towns and coastal areas affected by the storms."

MEP Pat the Cope Gallagher and MEP Brian Crowley called on all local authorities to quickly prepare an initial assessment of the damage caused by the storms.

(MH/CD)