Taoiseach 'concerned and worried' about further flooding in areas hit by Storm Chandra
The Taoiseach has said he will meet with those affected by Storm Chandra floods later this week.
Micheál Martin's comments come after he met with the National Emergency Coordination Group (NECG) on Saturday, where he was briefed on the current situation and response.
The public has been warned to remain vigilant in the coming days, as the weather remains unsettled.
The Taoiseach confirmed he will be meeting with people affected by the storm, telling RTÉ News: "I will be doing that", adding "we will be out there meeting people on the ground to hear what they have to say".
He said the Government's "main focus right now" is to "respond adequately to the various areas that have been impacted here, both in terms of humanitarian and business support schemes".
He said this will include "what interim measures we can take and what additional resources may be required by local authorities".
Mr Martin also said he was told of the need "to be on high vigilance over the next 10 days, because there will be more rain next week".
The NECG said crews and volunteers remain on the ground responding to the effects of the storm and will provide support where needed.
Eligibility for the emergency humanitarian flooding scheme is also to be expanded
Local authority crews are to continue working over the coming days to alleviate flooding, clean up in its aftermath, and prepare for the risk of further flooding.
Minister and the NECG Chair Keith Leonard paid tribute to the volunteers who are giving their time and energy to help communities this bank holiday weekend, the Irish Examiner reported.
While rain is forecast to ease today and tomorrow, the impacts of Friday night’s rain may continue throughout the weekend, and flooding is a continuing risk due to saturated ground conditions and high river levels.
The Minister is also seeking to increase the upper limit for payments under the scheme from €20,000 to €100,000 for the most impacted premises.
The Irish Red Cross has set up a helpline to provide support to distressed people affected by flooding.
The helpline at 01-6424648 will be open 9am to 6pm across the bank holiday weekend and until required.
