The Government has been urgently called to address "massive underspend" that has been allowed to accumulate over the past seven years to deal with flooding issues throughout Ireland.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on OPW and Flood Relief, Eugene Murphy, said the government must ensure all necessary resources are allocated to deal with the impending flooding, which is expected as the snow continues to thaw.

He said: "Local authorities have been doing their best to keep on top of the situations, but certain counties may need additional resources to cope with the anticipated flood waters.

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"I want to extend my gratitude to members of the emergency service, the Civil Defence, the Defence Forces and local volunteers, who have worked tirelessly with the authorities over the past few days to assist communities in the worst affected areas. Community spirit is alive and well and these people are an example of everything that is good about this country.

"The government has still not fully implemented specific pledges it made in January 2016, in the aftermath of Storms Desmond and Frank. We're still waiting on pilot home protection projects to be rolled out, as well as a national flood forecasting and warning service to be established.

"The National Flood warning system is not due to be operational for another five years, but if recent weather events are an indication of things to come, then we need this system up and running as soon as is feasibly possible."

(CD/JP)