Micheal Martin says government cannot 'wave a magic wand' on flood relief

Taoiseach Micheal Martin visited homes and businesses hit by recent flooding in Enniscorthy and said the government will provide humanitarian support and interim protection while preparing a comprehensive flood relief scheme for planning.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin visited Island Road in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, an area recently affected when the River Slaney burst its banks during Storm Chandra. He spoke with residents and business owners about the impact of the flooding. Government ministers acknowledged that delivery of flood relief schemes has been slow. Officials described a parallel approach of immediate interim measures alongside the planning of longer-term schemes. Key points: - Officials visited Enniscorthy after recent flooding and spoke with affected residents and businesses. - The government said it will provide humanitarian support to families and support for impacted businesses. - The Office of Public Works will work with the local authority on interim protection measures while a comprehensive scheme is designed and submitted for planning. - Met Éireann issued yellow rain warnings for several counties and warned of further heavy rain on saturated ground. Summary: The government is pursuing short-term humanitarian and interim protective steps while preparing a substantial flood relief scheme that must go through planning and design. Officials have acknowledged past delays and said they will try to speed progress, but the timeline for full delivery is undetermined at this time.