Cowen: Shelter and water a priority
Providing shelter and safe drinking water for flood victims was a priority for Government, the Taoiseach has said.
Brian Cowen also assured homeowners that its emergency response will continue for as long as needed.
He revealed Environment Minister John Gormley was travelling to Cork to see first hand the damage caused by the unprecedented flooding.
Homes, businesses and hospitals across the county have felt the brunt of the weather, with all of the northside and the central southside of city left without water.
Hundreds of people have also been evacuated in Cork, Clare and Galway.
Mr Gormley said: "These are some of the worst floods we have seen in many parts of the country in living memory and our priority must be to help those people whose lives and livelihoods have been so badly hit by these events.
"Central Government is providing whatever help and assistance it can to the local services providing direct emergency assistance to those affected by the flooding."
Cork City Council has warned the public that high tide is due between 7am and 9am on Saturday, while heavy prolonged rain and strong winds is forecast.
"It is possible that flooding may occur in the low lying areas of the city centre. Steps should, therefore, be taken to protect property," said a spokeswoman.
Mr Cowen and Mr Gormley discussed the crisis facing residents after a meeting of the emergency task force. The Environment Minister will report back to the group on Saturday.
