Fine Gael Cork North Central Senator, Colm Burke, has today (Friday) welcomed the decision by the Government and the Department of Social Protection to extend the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme to those whose homes were affected by flooding in Cork.  

The Scheme, which is means tested, will provide emergency financial assistance to householders who are unable to meet essential costs which have arisen as a result of the recent flooding

.
“I welcome the decision of the Government to extend the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme to include Cork and I would urge those who are in need of assistance to contact their local Department of Social Protection to apply for the fund.

“Today’s announcement will be of considerable relief to those who are eligible for this assistance. This is, in part, due to the fact that repairs for structural damage caused as a result of the flood waters will also be considered under the Scheme.

“I am however disappointed that the terms of the Scheme will not be extended to provide relief for those who are living in local authority and private rented accommodation, many of whom will now be dependent on the responses of their individual landlords.”