Rural areas of Longford and Westmeath have been hit with severe flooding, prompting a call for financial assistance.

Local Fianna Fáil representative Robert Troy has urged the government to confirm what monetary support is available to people whose homes and land have been affected by flooding.

Deputy Troy explained: "While the flood defences appear to be holding up in the major towns, people living in isolated rural areas and on farms are experiencing severe flooding. Locals are annoyed that despite promises over the past number of years, they are back where they were in 2015.

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"People are having to rent out pumps to protect their homes and move animals up on to higher ground – and this incurs a cost.  Where do they apply for the financial assistance to help them out in this time of crisis?

"The situation is extremely distressing, and what's worse is the fact that many of these people were put through this trauma back in 2015 and 2016.  They're looking for answers and reassurance that these costs, which are beyond their control, will be covered and I am seeking clarity as to what schemes are in place to ease the burden on these communities."

(CM/JG)