The government is being urged to progress with projects for flood defence.

Fianna Fail made the call after torrential rain caused severe flooding in Donegal, Sligo and some areas in Roscommon.

Deputy Murphy said that while the government has allocated money for the schemes they need to be progressed as a "matter of urgency".

He said: "The scenes of utter devastation witnessed last night cannot be repeated. Roads and bridges have been swept away rendering some areas inaccessible, there were reports of people unable to make it home, while others were stranded in isolated areas.

"Local county councils play a huge role in dealing with the fallout of these devastating weather events happen. Workers go above and beyond their duties to help families and people impacted by the flooding. However, there needs to be a more coordinated strategy in place involving the local authorities and the civil defence to manage these situations when they arise.

-- Advertisement --

"Despite a raft of promises from Government in January last year – including pilot home protection projects and a national flood forecasting and warning service – very few have been implemented. Minister Moran needs to start delivering for flood affected areas – announcements in themselves do nothing to help families whose homes and land has been destroyed."

Fine Gael TD Joe McHugh said: "Family homes have been destroyed in the flood waters and the affects on homeowners is devastating.

"It is essential that an emergency aid package is put together so we can help families rebuild their lives and so that bridges and roads washed away in the floods are restored as soon as possible.

"We have heard incredible stories of neighbours saving neighbours at the height of the floods. It is a miracle no lives were lost during this weather event.

"It is clear now that six major bridges and roads need to be repaired so that, for example, people can travel from Moville to Muff. There are a number of other areas where people have been cut off and access needs to be restored as soon as possible."

(CD/LM)