Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Jun 2002

Vol. 553 No. 5

Written Answers. - Flood Relief.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

188 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the position in regard to negotiations between his Department and Kildare County Council in regard to remedial works arising from the flooding which took place in the winter of 2001 at such locations as Maynooth, Leixlip, Celbridge, Straffan, Johnstown, Kill and Hazelhatch, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14676/02]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Following meetings between my officials in the Office of Public Works and officials from Kildare County Council, an interim programme of flood alleviation works at an estimated cost of €1,130,500 has now been agreed for the enhancement of the Morell River, Straffan Area, and the Lyreen/Meadowbrook Rivers, Maynooth Area, County Kildare. These works, which will be funded by Office of Public Works, are scheduled to commence on site within the next two weeks.

A separate flood relief scheme dealing exclusively with the Hazelhatch area of County Kildare has recently been completed by Office of Public Works.

Discussions are also ongoing between Office of Public Works and the county council in relation to commissioning a feasibility study to help advance comprehensive flood relief schemes for the Morell, Lyreen and Meadowbrook rivers.

The county council is currently engaged in extending the scope of the existing reports already submitted by it in relation to these rivers to include an environmental impact study and cost benefit analysis which are essential before a full feasibility study can be undertaken.

Questions Nos. 189 and 190 answered with Question No. 185.