The leaders of the five main parties in Northern Ireland have written to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris, asking for additional cash to help communities that have been impacted by flooding.
The letter was signed by Michelle O’Neill MLA (Sinn Fein), Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP (DUP), Naomi Long MLA (Alliance), Doug Beattie MLA (UUP) and Colum Eastwood MP (SDLP).
The letter states: “The extensive flooding that has affected many areas here over the past week has caused widespread damage and devastation for businesses and homes.”
“Without immediate support and financial assistance, the damage and loss of business could lead to closures and job losses.”
“Repairing the extensive damage caused by flooding is also a massive financial pressure for families already suffering the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.”
“Communities, businesses, and families need immediate help but given the precarious financial position of local Departments, this requires additional funding.”
“As leaders of the main political parties, we would urge you to immediately request from the Treasury and specific to this weather event, additional resources for an emergency relief scheme to this weather event, additional resources for an emergency relief scheme to assist local householders and businesses, and to protect jobs and community facilities.”
“Collectively, we should spare no effort to protect vulnerable businesses, families and communities facing this enormous and unforeseen financial pressure.”
On Saturday, the Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, wrote to Chris Heaton-Harris asking him to clarify if Northern Ireland would receive similar support to businesses and households in England.
My letter to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland about the flooding in Newry, Portadown, Downpatrick and elsewhere and asking what financial help the Government intends to give the residents and businesses affected. pic.twitter.com/RfxK8bdTn2
— Hilary Benn (@hilarybennmp) November 4, 2023
