I thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing me to raise this issue and I am grateful to the Minister for coming into the House to debate the very real danger to the people of certain parts of Cobh from the threat of landslides.
The Minister of State, Deputy Wallace, recently visited Cobh to view the situation. However, another landslide occurred two days ago. Large rocks and boulders narrowly missed destroying a back kitchen just below where a retaining wall collapsed. There are five children in a nearby house and the family is afraid to use the rear of the house as there is a danger that more of the wall will collapse. Shortly before the landslide a little girl was standing on the ground that fell away.
The Minister is aware and concerned about this situation but I raised this issue in the House eight months ago. Only now is there any sign that work might occur. The family involved was very lucky this time and I implore the Minister to ensure that all possible efforts will be made to ensure that the necessary work is carried out in all the at risk areas in Cobh as soon as possible.
Fort Villas is of particular concern. A rock fall occurred there a number of years ago and this could happen again at any time. This fall resulted in the access road to a number of houses being closed to traffic – the road just fell away. Vehicle owners cannot access their houses. What if there is a fire? Emergency services cannot access a number of houses. Some people, including elderly people have to climb more than 70 steps. In addition to the dangers posed by landslides, these people are deprived of access to their homes using vehicular traffic.
Last February the Minister told me that he was concerned about money and cost. I understand this concern and I know that permission has been given to carry out some work. However, a rock fall in any of the at risk areas could occur at any time. Urgent remedial work is needed in all the at risk areas to safeguard life and property. Neither the Minster nor I wants to have to stand in the House and express sympathy and regret for a tragedy that might occur, God forbid, if remedial works are not carried out.
Will the Minister ensure that short cuts are not taken and that cost cutting or skimping does not occur to save money? This is a serious issue. I ask the Minister to ensure that the job is done properly, comprehensively and where it is needed so that the people of Cobh can go about their business without the threat of death or injury and that we can sleep easily in our beds.