Fianna Fáil is calling for "steps to be taken" after it was revealed a flood prevention committee failed to meet over a four year period.

Longford – Westmeath Robert Troy TD described the revelation as "shocking" and a "disgrace".

He said: "It's nothing short of a disgrace that the Government appointed committee tasked with formulating flood prevention and alleviation strategies did not meet over a four year period. This is despite the fact that many communities experienced devastating flooding during these four years.

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"Numerous Government ministers told us in recent months that everything possible was being done to protect homes and businesses from flooding. However the report from the Comptroller and Auditor General paints a different picture. It shows us that Fine Gael and Labour took the eye off the ball when it comes to dealing with the threat posed by flooding.

"Minister for OPW Simon Harris must launch an investigation to determine why this high level committee did not meet over a four year period. He also needs to explain why he hasn't engaged with this committee since coming to office. People at risk of flooding need assurance that the Government is doing everything it can to assist them."

(CD)