Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Nov 2002

Vol. 558 No. 2

Written Answers. - Consultancy Contracts.

John Bruton

Question:

120 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance when the consultants were appointed to complete the study of Tolka River basin; if there was a delay in the appointment relative to the commitment given in a response to an earlier question to the effect that the consultants would be appointed in January 2002; and if so, the reasons for this delay; the amount of money payable to the consultants for the work; if the work is being conducted satisfactorily; when he expects it to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23960/02]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon):

The greater Dublin strategic drainage study commenced in June 2001 after the Department of the Environment and Local Government approved the appointment of consultants to Dublin Corporation, now Dublin City Council. A full study of the Tolka catchment was not included in this. At the initiative of the Commissioners of Public Works, the study was extended in order to provide for a detailed flood study of the Tolka River catchment which would also outline options for flood alleviation. Sanction from the Department of Finance to the Office of Public Works for the expenditure of €867,366.72 in respect of consultancy fees for the study was received in February 2002 and the consultants were formally appointed by Dublin City Council in April 2002.

The study is expected to be completed in May 2003 which is approximately two months longer than anticipated at the outset. This is to allow for more detailed modelling of the catchment in order to facilitate more accurate predictions of flood behaviour. The consultants have been requested to produce an interim report on what measures, if any, can be taken to alleviate flooding in the areas worst affected in the past few weeks. This interim report is expected to be produced in the next few days.