Central and Local Government Officials met this morning to determine how the fund of up to £5million announced yesterday to aid flood victims is to be used.
The Minister said:
“I recognise the stress and hardship suffered by householders and the need to provide urgent assistance to prevent suffering or severe inconvenience. I have therefore advised councils to complete their assessments of the most urgent needs over the weekend, and to make payments available from Monday. Many householders have already contacted their local councils but those who have not and consider they might be eligible should do so as soon as possible about flood damage to their homes”.
The Minister went on to say that, in addition to this immediate action, she has also agreed that councils may incur expenditure on a range of activities to help people make their homes habitable. (She welcomed the fact that the Northern Ireland Housing Executive has already started work on their properties). These activities include:
- Completion of external clean-up of streets and other public areas
- Collection and disposal of household contents damaged by the flooding
- Assistance to private householders to clean up their homes and gardens
- Advice on health and safety issues
- Provision of de-humidifiers to dry out homes
- Advice for householders of what support may be available from other Agencies
The Minister is monitoring the continuing severe weather situation and will consider whether any further action may be needed.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- Householders who consider themselves eligible on the basis of hardship and serious damage should contact their District Council.
- Councils will assess applications under criteria to be set by the Department relating to hardship and serious damage.
