Irish MEPs have requested funding from the EU Solidarity Fund to help repair damage caused by superstorm Christine.

A group of Irish MEPs met Commissioner Johannes Hahn who controls the fund to discuss various options which would enhance the Irish application.

Applications for EU funding must be lodged with the Commission within 10 weeks of the end of the storm.

It is estimated that the series of storms that have been battering the country could cost up to €225 million worth of damage.

MEP Sean Kelly says Commissioner Hahn is open to providing EU funds for storm-related damage in Ireland.

The Junior Finance Minister Brian Hayes said earlier this month that Irish funds would be made available to help those worst hit by on-going storms.

A humanitarian relief scheme, operated by the Department of Social Protection, means people who have no insurance could get help from their local office.

The Departments of Transport and Public Works also have funds that can be made available.

Strong winds and high tides have combined to cause flooding along Atlantic coasts, with parts of Cork, Kerry, Clare and Galway among those worst affected.