FURTHER FUNDING OF €3 million has been announced for people affected by Storm Babet.

The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme will provide flood relief for small businesses, as well as sporting and voluntary organisations, that were affected by the storm.

Speaking after Cabinet signed off on the funding, Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys said those most in need of support will find it through the scheme.

The Scheme was activated on the 19th October to support households in Cork City and County and West Waterford, including Cork City, Midleton, Youghal, Castletownbere, Mallow, Tallow and Dungarvan and other affected areas.

A total of 223 payments amounting to €147,260 has been made to those affected by the recent flooding.

“I’m very conscious of the serious disruption that severe weather and flooding has on individuals and families,” Humphreys said.

“A fund of €10 million has been in place for this scheme since 2009 and I am delighted to have secured a further €3 million, increasing the fund to €13 million.”

In addition, Cabinet approval has been given to increase the income limits for the scheme with immediate effect. Income limits will now be increased from:

• €30,000 to €50,000 for a single person;
• €50,000 to €90,000 for a couple;
• €10,000 to €15,000 per dependent child.

Where a family has a household income over the income limit, a reduced or tapered level of support may be provided.

Humphreys said: “In view of the increased average income levels since 2009, I have today secured approval for an increase in the income limit levels to ensure they reflect household incomes.

“This will ensure that those most in need of the support of the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme can avail of it, including non-social welfare recipients.”

Humphreys added that any homeowner affected by the severe weather and who needs to access the supports, they can contact the Community Welfare Service by phoning 0818 60 70 80.

Levels of payment under the scheme depend on the relative severity of damage experienced and the household’s ability to meet these costs, ensuring that the funding is appropriately targeted.

The scheme does not cover risks that are already covered by insurance policies or cover business or commercial losses. It provides targeted assistance to those whose homes are affected.

Full information on the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is available here.