Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
560. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the position regarding the assessments that are carried out to determine the level of Exchequer funding that any NGO receives from his Department on an annual basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11832/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe only NGO funded by my Department since 2022 has been the Irish Red Cross. This funding comes from the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme (EHFS).
This scheme designed to assist small businesses and community, voluntary and sports organisations, that have been impacted by flooding due to a severe weather event. The EHFS provides a contribution towards the cost of returning a business premises or community, voluntary or sports organisation to its pre-flooding condition. The scheme is for small businesses and community, voluntary and sports organisations, that through no fault of their own cannot secure flood insurance.
There are two payment stages; an initial payment of up to €5,000 and then a second payment subject to an assessment of the damages by an independent, professional assessor. The total funding available is capped at a maximum of €20,000 (or €100,000 for the current Enhanced Scheme) per small business or community, voluntary or sporting body. These funds may be used to replace damaged flooring, fixtures and fittings, and stock, with the aim of enabling businesses to reopen as soon as possible.
The EHFS is administered by the Irish Red Cross on behalf of the Department. This relationship is governed by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Department and the Irish Red Cross that is drafted annually and signed by both parties. The MOU sets out the terms and conditions of the EHFS.
Initially the Irish Red Cross makes payments and then requests reimbursement from the Department. They may request an interim payment at a mid-point in the scheme, and then a final payment when the scheme is closed. The interim and final invoices that the Irish Red Cross submit to the Department must be accompanied by an Interim or Final Report about the particular scheme.
