Significant damage has been caused to a number of homes after flash flooding in Mountmellick, Co Laois, on Wednesday night, 22 November.

The Defence Forces have been called in to deal with the clean-up.

Sinn Fein MLA Brian Stanley called for infrastructural work to be carried out immediately.

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He said: "With the level of devastation suffered by many residents, the government needs to prioritise resources to help those in current need.

"In terms of the future, we need to put proper structures in place. The Barrow Drainage Board was abolished three years ago; they also managed the Owenass which runs through the town. Alongside this, the long promised drainage scheme for the town has not happened. Such infrastructure is vital."

(CD/MH)