PRESIDENT Mary McAleese has written to the Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Michael Doran, expressing her support for Carlow County Councils and its workers who were involved in managing the recent flooding crisis.

Her office at Áras an Úachtarán contacted the County Manager's office during the crisis when she heard at first hand of the 'unstinting work of the part of the councils and the emergency services in trying to bring relief to the many homes, businesses and farms which have been so cruelly hit by the flooding.'

President McAleese asked Cathaoirleach Doran to convey her appreciation to all who were involved with the emergency and clean up operations.

'It is also very gratifying to hear the many reports of the tremendous effort at community level in local areas and the helping hand being given by neighbour to neighbour,' the letter, dated December 8, said.

'It is hugely gratifying to see that the spontaneously generous spirit of meitheal is alive and well in our country,' President McAleese said.