Dromcollogher is situated in the foothills of the Mullahareirk Mountains near the Cork border. There are two streams which flow through the village, one from Carraward townland and the other the Ahavarragh stream. It has experienced severe flooding over a prolonged period which has caused distress for many householders in the village. The problem is compounded by a raw sewage overflow because of an inadequate sewerage system.
Following a succession of flooding incidents Limerick County Council appointed consultants to report on the overall problem. They produced their report in December 1997 which was forwarded to the Office of Public Works for its consideration.
The report outlined the sequence of flooding from 1984 to August 1997, when there was the most serious flooding incident. As a result of the flooding, Limerick County Council appointed consultants. They outlined 27 occasions over the 13 years on which flooding occurred. While on many occasions the roads were flooded, on some occasions each summer, especially over the three year period 1995 to 1997, not only the roads but also the houses were flooded and on one occasion the local church was flooded.
The ongoing flooding has caused severe hardship and inconvenience for the people of Drumcollogher, especially the residents of Pike Street and Pound Street. It is time to put an end to this intolerable situation which not only caused concern to Limerick County Council but also to the Mid-Western Health Board because of the raw sewage overflow. Downstream from the village, bridges and culverts have backed up and flooded adjoining lands.
The consultants made their recommendations over two years ago. They especially pinpointed the lack of capacity in the river below Drumcollogher which contributed to the flooding problems in the village. The consultants further concluded that work should be carried out by the Office of Public Works at the earliest possible time.
I raised this matter at local council level and the council indicated it is hopeful that the works will be carried out this year and that finance will be provided. I raise this matter on the Adjournment to indicate how essential these works are. It is totally unjust that the community in Drumcollogher must tolerate on an ongoing basis the hardship, financial loss and inconvenience. Having highlighted the case to provide funding, it is imperative that the Minister of State, Deputy Cullen, can confirm that funding will be provided and that the works will be completed this year. I look forward to his response.
