Brian O'Shea
Question:147 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Finance the progress made with regard to the proposed review of national flooding policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5373/03]
Written Answers - National Flooding Policy.
As the Deputy is aware, on 27 November 2002, I announced a major review of national flooding policy would be carried out. The purpose of the review is to assess the extent of the flooding problem, clarify roles and responsibilities among the various State agencies involved in the issue of flood relief, and recommend practical action to deal with the problem more effectively in the future.
The review group, which I chair, comprises of the Office of Public Works, Departments of Finance, Environment and Local Government, Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Agriculture and Food, the County and City Managers Association, IBEC, and the IFA.
Following the inaugural meeting of the group on 17 January 2003, an advertisement was placed in the three national daily newspapers inviting submissions from all interested individuals and bodies wishing to have their views considered by the review group. While some submissions have already been received, it is expected many more will follow ahead of the deadline for receipt of submissions on 28 March.
In addition, the review group also identified a number of key stakeholders whose inputs they believe are important to the development of future policy and these bodies have been approached directly for their comments.
A second meeting of the group took place on 21 February and the group will continue to meet on a monthly basis so as to ensure its final report is ready to present to Government by late autumn of this year.