More oversight needed on emergency fund for weather damage – Ó Muirí

A non-means tested Emergency Response Payment for victims of extreme weather events is at risk of failing taxpayers and the people the scheme is designed to protect, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí, chair of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy said, “Storm Chandra caused extensive flooding across many parts of the country, including Clongriffin in Dublin where flood waters from the Mayne River submerged the car parks of several apartment complexes.”

The Emergency Response Payment provides short-term financial support to people whose homes have been damaged by flooding or other severe weather events and aren’t able to meet the costs for essential needs.

Stage 1 of the scheme gives payments for immediate needs such as food, clothing and bedding with no income test applied.

Deputy Ó Muirí sought feedback from the Department of Social Protection on Stage 1 of the scheme to ensure that those in apartments in Clongriffin were adequately supported.

“The Department stated in a response to a parliamentary question that it does not collate claims data by address and was not able to provide feedback.

“This is a serious oversight, particularly as applicant address is part of the Stage 1 payment application form. Right now, the Department cannot look back after the event and tell if the support provided is reaching the right homes and if it is adequate to meet victim needs.

“As adverse weather events become more common, the Government must know exactly where the money goes. Without clear rules around geographic verification, there is also an increased risk of fraudulent claims from others who may not have suffered in the event.

“The Minister must reform the Stage 1 Emergency Response Payment process to hold address data so it can ensure that help reaches those in genuine need,” concluded Deputy Ó Muirí.