Government to Fast-Track Storm Clean-Up

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The Government has promised to fast-track funding for clean-up operations as winter storms maintain their grip on the country.
Thousands of homes and businesses were left without power, while the severe weather caused further structural damage.
Communities along the western seaboard endured another day of high winds and tidal surges.
A Met Éireann status yellow warning is in place for coastal counties of the south and west. The alert means people may be significantly affected by widespread gales with gusts of up to 110km/h.

There was flooding in Cork city this morning as the River Lee burst its banks.
Cork Business Association President Ernest Cantillon said several members reported minor flooding but flood barriers proved effective.
ESB Networks has said most of the customers across the country without power today will have it restored by this evening.
However, a lightning strike in Castlebar, Co Mayo left between 30 and 40 houses without power and it is unlikely it will be restored tonight.
Flood waters have receded in Salthill in Galway after high tides and strong winds caused road closures earlier this morning.
Most of Salthill promenade is open to traffic after Galway City Council road crews cleared debris washed ashore this morning.
The minister who oversees the Office of Public Works has said it is inevitable that additional money will have to be added to funds already available for local authorities to deal with storm damage.