No Surprises As August Declared Wettest On Record

Following the chaotic flooding throughout the island, it's no surprise this August is now officially the wettest since records began.

Figures released by Met Eireann this week show rain levels have already reached 177.7mm, washing away the 22 year-old record of 158.7mm.

The subsequent flooding has resulted in the loss of an as yet un-confirmed amount in possessions, cars and time off work, for hundreds of families and businesses. with farmers alone facing losses of up to €400million.

The cost of the damage and destruction will be an unwelcome drain on the currently struggling Irish markets.

Fine Gael TD Olwyn Enright described the Government's response to the disaster across Ireland as totally inadequate.

He said: "Recent days have seen some of the worst flooding in Ireland in years with parts of Wicklow, Carlow, Limerick, and even parts of my own area in Offaly, suffering heavy damage.

"However, the lack of urgency from the Government over the same period is shocking when so many homes, businesses and communities are in danger of being washed out."

He added: "Local authorities have worked flat out to try and alleviate the problems caused. Many people have been left unable to remain in their own homes and without access to roads and bridges.

"The National Development Plan promises €895 million for the Community Infrastructure Programme, which includes flood defences, but only €23 million was spent in the first year of the plan in 2007 on flood defence."

(DW)