Householders in Northern Ireland affected by flooding will be able to apply for a £1,000 payment as an offer of practical assistance.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan announced he had activated the emergency service and said the payment is meant to ensure that homes are made habitable as quickly as possible.

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Mr Durkan said: "If you feel that you may be entitled to the payment, contact your 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."

(CD/JP)