I ask leave to move the Adjournment of the Dáil this evening to consider a matter of urgent public importance, namely, the widespread, acute and unprecedented distress and devastation caused by flooding in Kilkenny City, Thomastown and other areas, requiring the immediate provision of finance and supplies. I have already given written notice of this matter.

I have grave doubts as to whether this question might be considered to be of a local character, but in view of the unprecedented nature of the occurrences in Kilkenny, I am accepting it as one that comes under the Standing Orders.