By Alan Rodgers

A COMPENSATION payment of £1,000 is being planned for the householders affected by the devastating flooding in Newtownstewart last month.

The announcement was made yesterday (Wednesday) by the Environment Minister, Edwin Poots. The money is being made available under the Emergency Financial Assistance Scheme to District Councils.

Mr Poots said that in addition, Strabane Council could offer a range of practical help and guidance.

"This includes collection, retention and disposal of damaged household content, assistance in making arrangements to clean up homes and gardens and by providing de-humidifiers to dry out homes."

Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson, said the money would ensure practical and financial help is delivered to those most severely affected.

News of the funding came just as Strabane Council met with the Rivers Agency to discuss the background and cause of the recent Newtownstewart flood.

It was attended by David Porter, Regional Engineer with the Rivers Agency and local Councillors. Mr Porter re-iterated the commitment to carry out further work on site as part of the clean-up operation.

Chairman Kieran McGuire, said residents were trying to salvage what they can to make their homes clean and comfortable again.

"Many residents are asking why this flood happened. Local councillors were keen to give those affected a voice and give Rivers Agency an opportunity to fully inform councillors of the reasons behind the flooding," he said. "Our thoughts are with those people affected by the flooding and as a council we are keen to ensure that their concerns are raised with the right people and that central government provides them with all available supports."

Anyone who feels that they may be entitled to the payment is urged to contact Strabane Council so that an urgent inspection may be arranged.