The government should immediately activate flood assistance schemes for farmers and others in need of assistance after Shannon Basin flooding.
That’s the view of Galway-Roscommon TD Denis Naughten, who said that while the Taoiseach is viewing flood defences, he must also activate assistance schemes for families and businesses impacted.
“In the case of the farming community they were forced to take stock off land last September and it could be some considerable time before they have access to this land again,” stated Denis Naughten.
“In such instances fodder will be running low and the Department of Agriculture must activate supports for farmers in need of assistance within the catchment of the River Shannon and River Suck.”
The Independent TD said that a small number of families and businesses are already suffering due to severe flooding, along with a much higher number of farmers.
“They should not have to wait until it reaches a crisis point before these funds are activated,” Denis Naughten insisted.
The Taoiseach was also asked to intervene in ensuring the maximum flow of water through Meelick and Parteen weirs.
Flooding has caused serious disruption to travel in Galway in the past week, with large number of roads in the county blocked by floodwaters.
