The government has announced its Flood Risk Management Plans, a 10 year project that will pledge €1 billion to address flood dangers nationwide.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on OPW & Flood Relief Eugene Murphy is concerned the government will not follow through with its plans.

He said: "I have serious concerns about the delivery of these projects given the huge underspend on previous flood defence schemes.

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"The government outlined a spend of €45m a year for flood defences between 2011-2017. However, it's running a €53m underspend across these projects – once again highlighting the huge disparity between the spin and the reality.

"Back in January 2016, €2m was allocated to a relocation scheme for homeowners who were severely impacted by the winter storms. More than 2 years later and not one homeowner has benefitted from the scheme."

Mr Murphy also addressed the issue of insurance companies, because they are refusing to provide cover, even when flood defences have been built. He feels this issue needs to be addressed, saying: "Unless this issue is addressed, there will be no comfort for those who have already been affected or those at risk of flooding."

(CM/MH)