Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has reiterated his call for a specific aid package to assist householders and small businesses affected by recent flooding and for a more strategic approach by Government to the issue of flood defences.

The Sinn Féin Leader was speaking as he visited New Ross, County Wexford, to see the damage caused by recent flooding in the town.

Accompanied by local Sinn Féin representative Oisín O'Connell, Mr Adams was shown the devastation caused to a number of local business premises in New Ross.

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He said: "The damage caused to local businesses in New Ross by the flooding from tidal river water has been considerable.

"Several businesses are currently unable to operate. Others are engaged in substantial repair work.

"The issue of insurance cover has arisen here as elsewhere.

"I asked the Taoiseach twice last week if the Government would consider a special state-funded aid package for those households and businesses affected by flooding but who, through know fault of their own, can't get insurance cover. I repeat that call today.

"The Government needs also to deal urgently with the fact that there is, as yet, no state-wide strategic plan for flood defences."

(CD/JP)