Fianna Fáil call for emergency funding for flood victims

A section of one road in Inishowen which buckled under the pressure from last night’s deluge.

FIANNA Fáil Spokesperson on Transport, Tourism and Sport Robert Troy TD has called on Minister Shane Ross to make emergency funding available to those impacted by last nights flooding.

Deputy Troy made the comments as torrential rain overnight led to the collapse of roads and bridges around the county. He said funds need to be made available as soon as possible, to help repair damaged transport infrastructure in areas hit by severe flooding.

“The torrential rain that has fallen in parts of Donegal over the last 24 hours has caused significant damage to transport infrastructure such as roads and bridges. The signalling along the Dublin to Galway/Westport train service has also been affected by the storm which has led to significant delays for passengers.

“It’s clear that emergency funding will be needed to help repair the damage to roads and bridges in particular. Minister Ross needs to put in place a contingency fund to help repair the damage and ensure that works are carried out without delay,” he said.

Pairc an Ghrianan, Burnfoot

Deputy Troy continued: “Local communities in Donegal have been left isolated as a result of the damage to transport infrastructure. They are not in a position to wait weeks for repairs to be carried out as the council follows standard procedures to allocate funding for repairs. This is an exceptional situation which requires an exceptional response.

“It is also the height of the tourism season which is an integral part of the local economy in the north – east. Minister Ross needs to ensure that speedy repairs to transport infrastructure are carried out to help protect the tourism industry. The Government needs to provide assistance to those affected by the flooding and support the work of Donegal County Council as they respond to the situation on the ground.” concluded Deputy Troy.

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