North West MEP Pat the Cope Gallagher has called on the Irish Government to prepare a submission to the European Commission for assistance under the EU Solidarity Fund to assist with storm damage caused by the severe weather.
Pat The Cope Gallagher MEP
The Irish Government secured €13 million under the EU Solidarity Fund following the devastating flooding that occurred in November 2009.
Pat the Cope Gallagher MEP stated today “The European Union Solidarity Fund was set up in 2002 to respond to natural disasters and severe weather within Europe. Since then, it has been used for 56 disasters covering a range of different events including storm damage and flooding.”
Mr Gallagher further stated “I believe that the Government should ascertain as quickly as possible from all local and regional authorities the estimated cost of the reconstruction work needed, with a view to submitting a proposal for assistance under the EU Solidarity Fund.”
Mr Gallagher concluded “I believe that this is an avenue worth pursuing due to the financial constraints facing many local authorities at the present time and in light of the successful application submitted in 2009.”