Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
29. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of people who have applied for the emergency humanitarian flooding scheme in each of the past six weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12167/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra66. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the progress of the emergency humanitarian flooding scheme for impacted businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13361/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 66 together.
This Department operates the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme for small businesses and voluntary, community and sports organisations that are affected by flooding as a result of extreme weather and are unable to obtain flood insurance through no fault of their own. The Scheme is administered by the Irish Red Cross on behalf of this Department.
In January, the Department activated the Enhanced Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme for businesses impacted by Storm Chandra and the subsequent heavy rainfall from 26 January to early February.
This Enhanced Scheme is for small businesses of up to 50 employees (or wholetime equivalents), and community, voluntary and sports organisations. It provides a contribution towards the cost of returning a business premises to its pre-flood condition.
There are two payment stages; an initial payment of up to €5,000, and then a second payment subject to assessment of the damages by an independent, professional assessor. The total funding available is capped at a maximum of €100,000 per small business or community, voluntary or sporting body. These funds may be used to replace damaged flooring, fixtures, fittings, and stock with the aim of enabling businesses to reopen as soon as possible.
As of the 18 February 2026, the Irish Red Cross have received 57 applications for the Enhanced Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme. Total funding disbursed to date is €52,000, which represents initial payments of up to €5,000 to 11 SMEs. Further payments will be made, up to a total of €100,000, once independent professional assessments are carried out.
|
Week Commencing |
Applications Received |
|
29 January |
3 |
|
2 February |
27 |
|
9 February |
23 |
|
16 February |
4 |
Further information and application forms are available on the Irish Red Cross website. The closing date for applications is 6 March 2026.
