30th January 2026
- Impacted businesses can benefit from €100,000 support to cover costs associated with flooding as a result of Storm Chandra, up from €20,000
- Definition of “small business” will be updated to include enterprises with up to 50 employees, up from 20
- Emphasis will be on getting money to eligible businesses as quickly as possible
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, will seek government approval to open the extension and expansion of the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme (EHFS). The scheme will support small businesses and community, voluntary and sporting organisations affected by severe flooding, with the previous limit of €20,000 extended to €100,000 to reflect the significant damage caused in the wake of Storm Chandra.
Commenting on the scheme, Minister Burke highlighted
“Businesses and community organisations have endured immense pressure in the wake of Storm Chandra. I continue to engage with SMEs across the country, with our Local Authorities and frontline workers. I am committed to securing urgent, practical support to those who need it most, and will seek cabinet approval for this scheme at the earliest opportunity. By extending and enhancing this scheme, we will ensure that affected premises can recover quickly, reopen and continue serving their local communities. This is about standing with those who, through no fault of their own, were unable to secure flood insurance and now face significant repair costs.”
Following sustained weather impacts in recent days, Government will approve the extension of the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme to cover damage incurred from 26 January through early February 2026.
The Irish Red Cross will continue to administer the Scheme on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, ensuring rapid and accessible support. Under the existing EHFS, initial payments of up to €5,000 will be made quickly to assist with urgent repair costs, usually within 1-2 days. Where damages exceed €5,000, applicants may pursue additional support following assessment, with a total cap of €20,000.
In recognition of the exceptional levels of damage observed in several areas across the country, the scheme will provide a fast‑tracked initial payment of up to €5,000 and a second tier of support, subject to professional assessment, bringing total assistance available up to €100,000 per business or organisation. Independent professional assessments will be conducted by assessors appointed through the Irish Red Cross.
This enhanced tier is designed to support those premises experiencing the heaviest structural and stock damage.
To reflect the scale of impact, the definition of “small business” for these Schemes will also be updated to include enterprises with up to 50 employees, ensuring that more employers in affected communities can access this vital assistance
Minister Burke went on to say,
“Businesses and community organisations across the country have faced enormous challenges as a result of Storm Chandra and recent flooding. I am acting decisively to ensure that those unable to obtain flood insurance can access fast, practical assistance. The extension of the EHFS and the activation of the Enhanced Scheme will help premises return to their pre‑flood condition as quickly as possible, protecting local jobs and supporting community resilience. I want to acknowledge the rapid work of the Irish Red Cross and our local authorities, who have been on the ground supporting affected areas throughout this severe weather. Government will not be found wanting when it comes to supporting our business community during this difficult time”.
Both Schemes provide humanitarian support, focusing on restoring premises to their pre‑flood condition which includes flooring, fixtures and fittings together with damaged stock replacement and essential works to facilitate reopening. Application details will be available on: www.redcross.ie/stormchandra
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