Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has called on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to work at pace to roll out flood support to affected businesses.

The South Down MLA said:

“I met the economy minister Deirdre Hargey this week to discuss the flood relief payment for impacted Downpatrick businesses.

“The minister has assured me that money has already been made available to the council and that many payments will be made this week.

“We need the council to work at pace to process applications to ensure financial help urgently reaches these affected businesses.

“If any business has a query or needs any assistance please contact me or any of the local Sinn Féin representatives.”

Sinn Féin councillor Oonagh Hanlon added:

“I welcome the interventions from the economy minister Deirdre Hargey who has acted quickly to ensure traders have access to proper funding and support.

“We now need the council to deliver these payments to ensure businesses quickly receive the financial help they need.”