Government approval to open the extension and expansion of the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme (EHFS) for businesses and communities impacted by the latest severe flooding due to Storm Chandra is being sought by the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD.
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.
Minister Burke said that businesses and community organisations have endured immense pressure in the wake of Storm Chandra and added that he will engage with SMEs across the country, 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 times, the 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 one to two 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 added that the extension of the scheme 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.”
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
