Sinn Féin MP, Chris Hazzard, has welcomed the announcement of a scheme which will support businesses who were impacted by recent flooding.

Mr Hazzard made the comments after Economy Minister, Conor Murphy, announced that the scheme will open to applicants next week. He said that he is also pleased that Mr Murphy "approved hardship schemes to support premises who were unable to access the previous £7,500 grants last year".

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In a statement, the South Down MP said:

"The announcement of this scheme will be a huge relief for local businesses whose premises were devastated by flooding just weeks before Christmas.

"Applications will open next week through local councils and eligible businesses will be able to avail of grants worth up to £100,000 to help with damages from flooding.

"Our small and family-run businesses have been under severe pressure because of the damage done by flooding and this scheme will enable them to restore their premises and to continue to open their doors to the community.

"It is clear the Economy Minister has listened to the voices of local businesses and acted quickly to ensure they have access to proper funding and support after what has been a very challenging time."