THE Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has promised £1m in support for those worst affected by Storm Éowyn.
After more than 200,000 were left without power after Friday’s chaotic weather, NIE has said they expect that number to drop to 40,000 by Tuesday evening.
Questions over goodwill compensation payments from NIE are also being considered, but customers have advised this should not be expected in the short term.
Speaking at the Community Assistance Centre in Carryduff, Minister Lyons commented: “Storm Éowyn has caused devastation, and my primary concern is the safety and well-being of all those affected, particularly children, the elderly and people with vulnerabilities.
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“Over the weekend I activated the Non-flooding Scheme of Emergency Financial Assistance (SEFA) to ensure immediate, on-the-ground support with Community Assistance Centres operating across every Council area.”
He said the scheme was now extended, with up to £1m ring-fenced for outreach services delivered in partnership with the community and voluntary sector.
“The widened scheme will provide funding for community assistance centres, emergency supplies of hot meals, transport to and from centres and other services, and washing facilities,” Minister Lyons said.
“The scheme will continue to cover additional costs for staff assisting with the clean-up operation.”
He said support had also been made available for those left homeless after the storm and those needing assistance.
Over the weekend, the Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn also said the UK government would give its full support to the recovery and support operation.
With specialist engineers from England already helping under mutual aid arrangements, Mr Benn said he was examining other requests made by the Executive and NIE for equipment and personnel.
“I will continue to work closely with Cabinet colleagues and Northern Ireland Executive ministers in the days ahead to make sure we are doing all that we can to support those affected,” he said.