Following on from Deputy Doherty's comments on the flooding in Midleton, will the Tánaiste give a commitment to think outside the box and provide an immediate financial package for the householders and businesspeople affected? A boil water notice is in operation again, which will affect 9,000 people in Whitegate, Killeagh, Ladysbridge, Mogeely and surrounding areas. Many shops are not open, which will place an extra burden on people. There has also been a lot of surface damage to roads. A massive package of assistance is required. I hope and pray the Government will think outside the box and offer something similar to the Covid payments. People do not have insurance and will not qualify for some of the humanitarian aid. We have to support everybody together.

As I said, we will examine the existing schemes to ensure they are fit for purpose in respect of the flooding event in Midleton, Glanmire, parts of Cork city and west Waterford. The Government will move on that. The Deputy outlined the broader issues, including the damage to road surfaces and so forth.

Again, I pay tribute to all the local volunteers who did so much work to help people at a very distressing time.