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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jan 2000

Vol. 513 No. 1

Written Answers. - Flood Relief.

Willie Penrose

Question:

348 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance if his Department will prepare, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, the Office of Public Works and Dúchas, an appropriate flood relief package to compensate farmers and residents for the substantial losses incurred by them in view of the recent heavy flooding in the River Shannon catchment area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1303/00]

Michael P. Kitt

Question:

353 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Finance if he will establish a River Shannon forum as a statutory authority with sole responsibility to maintain the river channel and regulate water levels to prevent flooding; if he will establish a task force on inland waterways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1365/00]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 348 and 353 together.

While there are no immediate plans to introduce a compensation package in respect of those affected by the recent flooding along the river Shannon, I and my colleagues in Government are keeping the situation under review and, where necessary, will bring forward appropriate measures.
While I acknowledge the range of agencies with interests in and responsibilities for the river, I think that at this stage the interests of those affected by the flooding would be better served through increased co-operation of the part of those agencies rather than necessarily establishing a further statutory authority. In keeping the situation under review I will be looking for evidence of this improved co-operation in the future.
I would point out that there is a proposed EU Framework Directive on Water Policy which will require that all aspects of water management be addressed on an integrated basis in relation to river basins. When the directive has been adopted it will be necessary to draw up comprehensive water management plans and put arrangements in place in relation to the co-ordination of all aspects of water management. These plans will, in relation to the management of water resources, include measures to relieve the effects of flood and drought.
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