Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has activated, with immediate effect, an emergency scheme for householders affected by the recent flooding in the Toome Road and Galgorm Road areas of Ballymena.

Activation of the scheme was approved following the recent heavy rainfall and flooding.

Mr Durkan said: "Individual householders will be eligible for a £1,000 payment as an offer of practical assistance to those who have suffered severe inconvenience, to ensure homes are made habitable as quickly as possible. It is not a compensation payment.

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"If you feel that you may be entitled to the payment, contact Ballymena Borough Council as soon as possible and they will arrange for an urgent inspection of your property. If the council decides that your claim is eligible, you will receive your payment within a matter of days.

"In addition, your council can also offer a range of practical help and guidance, including collection, retention and disposal of damaged household contents, assistance with arrangements to clean up your home and garden, and also by providing de-humidifiers to dry out affected homes.

"My Department will reimburse Ballymena Borough Council for the £1,000 payments to individual householders and for the direct and indirect costs of providing practical assistance and advice."

(CD/JP)