Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has today called on the Welsh Government to support Ruthin and all other North Wales communities that were flooded during last week’s Storm Christoph.

North Wales Police had to be called in to help evacuate homes in Ruthin and other parts of Denbighshire and Conwy during the extreme weather conditions, which hit the area hard from last Wednesday.

Speaking in a virtual session of the Welsh Parliament, Darren called on the Welsh Government to outline what support will be provided to residents and businesses affected.

He said:

“North Wales was hit very hard last week, as were other communities across the country, by Storm Christoph. Included in those communities that were hit was Ruthin in my own constituency.

“We need a statement from the Welsh Government on the impact of those storms and what support is now going to be made available to communities like Ruthin and elsewhere across Wales where homes and businesses were flooded out. These floods couldn't have come at a worse time, especially given the impact of the COVID pandemic.”

In her response the Trefnydd and Minister for Finance, Rebecca Evans MS,  said the Welsh Government has agreed to work with local authorities to make support payments of up to £1,000 available per household.

She said: “This support will also be available to people who have suffered significant internal flooding whilst the restrictions have been in place, and we're in some active discussion with the areas impacted in terms of the case for any further funding.”

Speaking after the meeting, Darren said:

“It is truly devastating that on top of dealing with a pandemic and living under lockdown restrictions, so many of my constituents are now faced with restoring their homes and businesses following last week’s floods.

“It is vital that people get the help and support they need to recover quickly and that investigations take place swiftly so that lessons are learned.”