Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 18 Dec 2002

Vol. 559 No. 6

Written Answers. - Flood Relief.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

114 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works has taken over responsibility to maintain embankments formerly the responsibility of the Land Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26953/02]

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

The Office of Public Works has not taken over responsibility to maintain embankments formerly the responsibility of the Land Commission.

The Arterial Drainage Act, 1945 empowers the Minister for Finance to transfer to the Commissioners of Public Works, whenever he thinks proper so to do on the application of the Commissioners, the control and management of any existing embankment.

Any proposal to transfer responsibility for existing embankments to the Commissioners would arise in the context of their operation as flood defences. Proposals would have to satisfy strict economic and environmental criteria and be considered in the context of the overall flood relief programme. The Office of Public Works is currently working on a number of schemes under the priority flood relief programme and the available financial resources are fully committed for the immediate future.

I have recently established a review group to examine and advise on policy in relation to flooding.