Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Environment Minister John Gormley held a meeting at the National Emergency Co-ordination Centre in Agricultural House on Kildare Street in Dublin last night.
Representatives of the Defence Forces, Met Eireann, Health Service Executive, Office of Public Works, An Garda Siochana, Coast Guard and various government departments also attended. The group is expected to meet again today.
Mr Cowen said Galway, Clare and Cork appeared to be the counties most affected by flooding. He said local emergency plans were working well and co-ordination was good on the ground.
“Clearly we’re very concerned about maintaining the priority on helping those who have been displaced or have to be looked after in accommodation whilst this flooding is taking place,” Mr Cowen said.
“Also of course making sure people have access to clean drinking water.” He commended the work of the emergency services. Another meeting of the emergency co-ordination team will take place at noon tomorrow, he confirmed.
Mr Gormley reported on his visits to Bandon, Ennis and elsewhere. He said he believed flood waters would abate tomorrow in some areas but certain parts of Galway could see a rise in water levels.
“The situation could have been much, much worse were it not for the prompt action of the emergency services,” Mr Gormley said.