DEASP statement re flooding events in the Midlands

The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection can confirm that the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is available to assist people whose homes are damaged by flooding and who are not in a position to meet costs for essential needs, household items and in some instances structural repair. The scheme is means tested and assistance is not provided for losses which are covered by insurance or for commercial and business losses. This Scheme is available to homeowners who have suffered damage in the flooding events in Laois and Offaly.

Financial support under the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme will be initially targeted at the immediate needs of those who may have been directly impacted by the flooding (such as clothing, food) with further support available (financial support for household items and structural repair) as the clean-up operations begin.

Current arrangements in Laois this morning are:

• Community Welfare Officers will be available in the Community Centre, Wolfetown Court in Mountmellick from 9am
• the Community Welfare Service is also available in the Department’s office in Portlaoise, Government Buildings, Abbeyleix Road

The Department will be making efforts to contact people in outer areas of Laois throughout the day.

ENDS