Issued : Thursday 16 September, 2010

Following the news that €13 million has been allocated to Ireland under the E.U. Solidarity Fund, Labour Party Councillor Gearóid Buckley has called on the Minister for Finance to use this money to fast-track flood prevention measures.

Cllr. Buckley said, “The Minister has said that the money will be used to re-coup monies spent by the Government on the emergency response during the flooding crisis last winter. This money needs to be spent in the heart of communities to ensure that the events of last November are not repeated.

“I acknowledge that the Government allocated emergency response funding at the time, however communities across the Country are still defenseless against a re-occurrence of the horrific floods. We have learnt little over the last year if we do not invest in basic infrastructure that will give some certainty to businesses and homeowners.

“Bandon is finally getting back on its commercial feet but it still faces a winter of uncertainty and fear. Insurers still have not processed some claims. Many homes and businesses have had to re-finance to refurbish their properties.

“The plans for the Bandon Main Drainage Scheme are sitting on Brian Lenihan desk ready to be given the green light. This €6million investment would provide the community in Bandon with the hope to see us through the winter months. A Government commitment of this sort would give confidence that the proposed long-term flood prevention works are not just another Fianna Fail election gimmick.

“The Government has already ploughed €22billion into Anglo Irish Bank in what will prove to be the biggest bank bailout in history. All I am asking for is an investment equivalent to 0.027% (€6million) of the Anglo bailout. This investment will guarantee a return both for the state, but more importantly for our community.”