Flood-hit Bantry reassured by minister
Approval is being sought to reopen the Government’s Emergency Business Flooding Scheme for businesses impacted by flooding in Bantry.
Following heavy rainfall during a Status Orange Rain Warning on Saturday, significant flooding was seen in the town’s centre with reports of a number of properties being impacted.
A local sports club, Bay AFC, saw its pitches completely submerged.
Bantry is considered a high-risk flood zone and has been repeatedly impacted by major flood events. A flood relief scheme has been in planning for the coastal West Cork town since 2022.
Responding to Saturday’s flooding, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD, confirmed that he will seek urgent approval to reopen the government’s Emergency Business Flooding Scheme should it be necessary.
“I am closely monitoring the reports of significant flooding in Bantry and acknowledge the distress and the impact it is having on traders and small businesses,” said the minister.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has previously provided support through the Emergency Business Flooding Schemes for Small Businesses where businesses, through no fault of their own, have been impacted by flooding events and could not get access to insurance cover.
Minister Burke continued: “In this event, I will be working across Government to reopen this scheme and provide assistance to our much-valued local businesses at this difficult time.”
He also confirmed that his department is liaising with Cork County Council, and reassured business owners that the government is ready to provide support.
Affected areas
A number of other areas across the county and city were impacted by the heavy rain.
Killavullen Bridge and Longfields Bridge in Mallow near Cork Racecourse were closed due to rising river levels.
The R603 Bandon to Kilbrittain road was also closed with members of the public being urged to exercise extreme caution on the roads.
By 7.45pm on Saturday, up to 65mm of rain had been recorded in some locations across the county.
Cork County Council’s Crisis Management Team convened on Saturday to assess the impact of the conditions with pumping arrangements put in place at known high priority locations.
In Cork city, there were reports of flooding and surging water on Blarney Street and surrounding areas, as well as a burst waste water pipe on Oliver Plunkett Street.
Other reportedly affected areas include Douglas Street, the Kinsale Roundabout, College Road, and the Commons Road.
Taking to X on Saturday evening, an Taoiseach Simon Harris said the Government will ensure those impacted by the flooding are supported.
“Cork floods are a concern for households and businesses. Thanks to all agencies and their staff who are working on the response and will continue to provide support in the coming days. I am being kept updated on the situation,” he wrote.