Homes and businesses impacted by flooding in Bantry at the weekend must be given immediate financial supports, according to Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns.
“Flooding at the weekend in Bantry was disastrous – but, regrettably, it was not surprising. In 2020, many of the same premises were devastated in serious flooding and, despite assurances that works would quickly commence to alleviate the issue, nothing has been done.
“It is extremely demoralising for business owners, many of whom are already under extreme strain because of the high cost of doing business, to have to now deal with the damage caused by repeat flooding.
“At a bare minimum, commercial rates bills for businesses should immediately be waived or refunded to help business owners with the clean-up operation. Grant supports must also be extended to those whose homes have been damaged. Further supports, if necessary, must also be extended from central government.
“Critically, we need long-term solutions to this crisis rather than short-term sticking plasters. We cannot allow a situation in which people in Bantry are expected to just put up with flooding on a regular basis. Works must commence to improve the culvert system and on flood relief as soon as possible.
“Four years ago, senior minsters made promises to the people of Bantry that this flooding issue would be addressed. Nothing has happened in the interim. The Government now has serious questions to answer about its failure to act and the slow pace of the response to this predictable and inevitable threat.
“When the Cabinet considers this issue tomorrow, they must outline financial supports for those homeowners and businesses impacted. Crucially, they must also provide a credible and rapid timeline outlining when improvement works will commence.”
October 7, 2024