"I am seeking approval from Government this week to open the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme for impacted businesses in Bantry who recently suffered flood damage. The scheme provides support for businesses who are unable to secure flood insurance and are impacted by flood water as a result of severe weather events.

"I would like to assure traders and the wider Bantry community that my department is liaising with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as well as with Cork County Council to reactivate the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme.

"The Irish Red Cross administers the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme on behalf of my department, providing much needed urgent support to businesses who, through no fault of their own, have been unable to secure flood insurance. I am liaising with the Irish Red Cross so that once approved by cabinet approval this week, the scheme will be stood up and impacted businesses can apply for financial supporting the coming days."