Limerick flood victims get €100,000 in aid

More than €100,000 in humanitarian aid payments has been made to flood victims in Limerick.

Some 70 per cent of the payments to flood victims nationally have been made in Limerick, where 2,000 people were affected by severe flooding earlier this month.

Labour TD for Limerick city and Minister for Housing Jan O’Sullivan has confirmed that 275 emergency payments totalling €109,242 have been made in Limerick.

The payments were mostly made to people living in the worst-hit area of Kings Island.

“This [figure] represents 70 per cent of the payments made to flood victims across the country and it highlights the enormity of the flooding that King’s Island and beyond experienced,” Ms O’Sullivan said.

Some 300 homes were affected when the river Shannon burst its banks in Limerick on February 1st last.

Almost a month later, households are still counting the cost of damage caused by the unprecedented flooding, which is expected to run into millions.

"Undoubtedly there will be more payments as there were a large amount of houses affected and serious loss suffered. I would advise people to keep in touch with their community welfare officers," Ms O'Sullivan added.

Overcome damage

The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme, managed by the Department of Social Protection, is intended to assist people overcome the damage caused by flooding.

The initial payment gives immediate assistance to families for items such as food, clothing and toiletries. A stage two payment will involve the replacement of white goods, furniture and other essential household items.