An Independent TD has accused the Government of “galling” double standards for refusing to cover car repairs for locals affected by flooding while providing financial support to Ukrainian refugees for car repairs.
This morning it was revealed that in the aftermath of Storm Chandra, the Department of Social Protection’s Emergency Response Payment excludes cover for flood damage to vehicles, rented properties, business losses, and a number of other expenses.
Instead, only essential amenities are funded by the State, such as structural damage to one’s house that cannot be afforded by the household, or furniture. Much of the funding is also means-tested based on a household’s income.
However, last year controversy erupted following a viral social media video concerning the use of Additional Needs Payments (ANPs).
As reported by Gript in March 2025, the Department of Social Protection confirmed that taxpayer money can be used for car repairs for eligible persons, including Ukrainian refugees.
Speaking to Gript today, Offaly TD Carol Nolan said that the current disparity in how the State allocates emergency vehicle support was unacceptable.
“The message to Irish car owners from the Government is ‘On your bike,'” Nolan said.
“The message to everyone else, ‘Car repair applications welcome.’ Galling doesn’t even come close to describing what’s going on.”
Nolan further argued that while the State should not be expected to purchase new vehicles for citizens, support for repairs is essential when the damage is linked to State infrastructure.
“Obviously no one is expecting government to cover the entire costs of purchasing new cars,” she said.
“But certainly where repairs can be obtained, then people should be supported to the greatest degree possible, especially in circumstances where the damage was caused primarily by poor river management or drain maintenance.”
Nolan’s comments follow record rainfall from Storm Chandra, which has caused millions of euros in property damage across the east coast. Towns such as Enniscorthy and Bunclody in Co. Wexford, and Aughrim in Co. Wicklow, are among the worst hit after rivers burst their banks.
Meanwhile, Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn questioned whether the State applies its own welfare principles consistently.
“In recent years, discretionary payments have been used where access to a vehicle was judged essential for work, care, or basic daily living.”
O’Flynn, who is a TD for Cork North-Central, said the Government has failed to explain why households whose vehicles were destroyed by the recent flooding are being categorically excluded from such support.
“That contradiction has not been explained,” he said.
“People affected by Storm Chandra deserve clarity, consistency, and fairness in how emergency supports are applied.”
Counties Wicklow, Dublin and Wexford were worst hit, with further rainfall expected over the next 72 hours.