Taoiseach Brian Cowen has expressed gratitude to members of the public service who have indicated they will not take part in strike action on Tuesday in the aftermath of flooding.
Mr Cowen said there would be stoppages next Tuesday but in areas affected by the emergency situation people were working well together.
“It appears to me there will be stoppages next Tuesday but in areas affected by this emergency situation let it be said that everyone’s working might and main to resolve the situation. Everyone’s trying to help their neighbour. Everyone’s trying to deal with what’s a very difficult situation for many thousands of people,” he said.
"It has always been envisaged that emergency cover is being provided. Clearly where there are emergencies arising not only is it being provided, it’s being augmented," he said.
“Everyone is putting their hands to the effort. There’s absolutely no question but the total commitment by all concerned, those in the public service those in the emergency services, volunteers, local communities themselves."
