To ask the Minister for the Economy when compensation from the Enhanced Flood Support Scheme will be distributed to businesses affected by the flooding in October 2023 and November 2023.

The local councils are responsible for making payments under the Enhanced Flood Support Scheme (EFSS) which is funded by the Department for the Economy.

The latest figures from the local Councils, in respect of the EFSS, indicated that there was a total of 108 applications. As of 3 June, the councils have issued letters of offer to 27 businesses to the value of £1.6m and advise they have made total payments of £310k to 22 businesses. Further payments will be issued to businesses by the Councils upon receipt of a signed letter of offer and any other required documentation.

The council have advised my officials that they are working with businesses on the ground to provide the appropriate evidence to receive payment.