Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú has called on the EU to expand funding supports for communities in the South East following recent severe flooding.
Storm Chandra and severe rain left rivers across Carlow and Kilkenny burst their banks which left houses and business’ flooded and people forced to leave their home.
The Government approved an Enhanced Flooding Scheme which will support businesses to a maximum of €100,000.
Addressing Commission representatives during the debate, she said the current structure of the EU Solidarity Fund must be strengthened to cope with the rising frequency of climate-related disasters.
“Europe will see more weather-related natural disasters in the years ahead, and a solidarity fund of €1.1 billion no longer appears sufficient,” Ms Ní Mhurchú said. “EU solidarity must be more than a principle it must deliver practical help to communities when they need it most. That is why I want to see the fund expanded to include flood defences, early weather-warning technology and other preventative measures.”
MEP Ní Mhurchú said she will continue working with colleagues in the European Parliament and the Commission to secure the resources needed to support recovery efforts and to better protect the South East against future extreme weather events.
