Flood Response

The government has activated the National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) in response to recent flooding.

The NECG brings together all government departments and response agencies to coordinate the response to emergencies such as flooding.

There is a risk of further flooding over the coming days. Response agencies are on alert and focused on putting in place measures to mitigate the impact of further rain and to ensure readiness to respond to any flooding incidents.

If you are directly affected by flooding and in need of help, you should contact your local authority. Contact details are available on local authority websites.

An Emergency Response Payment is available to people living in counties directly affected by recent flooding.

The scheme is currently open in counties:

• Carlow
• Dublin
• Kilkenny
• Louth
• Monaghan
• Waterford
• Wexford
• Wicklow

The scheme is managed by the Department of Social Protection and was formerly called the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme.

It provides financial support for people whose homes are damaged from flooding and who are unable to meet emergency costs for essential needs, household items, and structural repair.

The scheme does not provide a general compensation payment for damage or losses incurred as a consequence of a weather event, nor does it cover damage or losses that are insured under home insurance policies or would reasonably be expected to have been covered by an insurance policy.

If any homeowner affected by severe weather needs to access these supports, they can contact the Community Welfare Service by phoning 0818 60 70 80.

Full details on the Emergency Response Payment.

The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment has opened the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme for small businesses, as well as community, voluntary and sporting bodies, that have experienced damage as a result of flooding.

Support under this scheme can include replacing flooring, fixtures and fittings, and damaged stock if relevant.

The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke is to seek government approval to increase the total funding available to the most damaged premises from €20,000 to €100,000 to reflect the significant damage experienced. Currently the scheme applies to businesses of up to 20 employees. However, the Minister will also seek approval to extend the scheme to include enterprises with up to 50 employees.

The scheme is administered by the Irish Red Cross on behalf of the department.

Full information and application forms.

Keep informed

Check local authority websites and social media channels for local information such as road closures, flooding updates and community alerts.

Weather updates

Monitor Met Éireann forecasts – conditions may change quickly. Visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information.Information is also available across the Met Éireann App, social media platforms (@meteireann) and other news media sources.Check Local Authority websites and social media channels for information on road closures, flooding updates, and community alerts.

Travel and road safety information

Allow for disruption when travelling; plan extra time and reduce speed. Expect surface water, debris and poor visibility. Do not bypass road closure signs - the road ahead is unsafe and damage may be hidden beneath water. Do not drive through flood water - turn back and use another route. Check with transport operators in case of disruption when planning your journey.

Coasts and waterways

Stay back from riverbanks, streams and canals – water levels may rise quickly. Keep children and pets away from waterways and flooded areas. Keep away from coastal edges, harbours, piers and low-lying promenades during high tide. The Irish Coast Guard advice remains: “Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry.”

Community support

Check in with neighbours, older people or anyone who may need assistance in case conditions worsen.

ESB Networks

ESB Networks is highlighting the dangers posed by fallen live wires and is advising the public and the emergency services to stay away from these fallen cables and to report such cases to it immediately. ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999.The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie in regards to power restoration times.

Uisce Éireann

Uisce Éireann customers can check the website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via their 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278.The public can also sign up online to their free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies - go to www.water.ie.

Revenue

Revenue's advice to taxpayers and businesses impacted by the disruption caused by Storm Chandra is to contact the Collector-General’s office, once their circumstances allow, to agree mutually suitable arrangements to restore timely tax compliance. Revenue’s Collector-General’s office can be contacted on 01 738 3663, or through MyEnquiries.