I thank Deputy Pringle for raising this issue. I am very aware that the risk of coastal erosion has a significant impact on communities. In the first instance, coastal protection and localised flooding are matters for each local authority to investigate and address. The OPW provides support to local authorities through the minor flood mitigation works and coastal protection scheme, which has been in operation since 2009. The scheme provides funding to local authorities to undertake minor works or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas. Applications for funding from local authorities for measures or studies costing up to €750,000 can be made under this scheme. Funding of up to 90% of the total cost is available, subject to meeting specific economic, technical, social, and environmental criteria.
Under the minor flood mitigation works and coastal protection scheme the local authority is responsible for identifying and securing all necessary statutory, planning, landowner and any other relevant consents or permissions required. The commencement and progression of any works for which funding is approved is also a matter for each local authority. Since 2009, the OPW has approved funding under the minor flood mitigation works and coastal protection scheme for 13 projects in County Donegal, relating to coastal works and studies amounting to approved funding of €674,300.
On the Deputy's specific query about Inver, in 2016 the OPW approved funding of €36,000 under this scheme for Donegal County Council to use for the installation of rock armour to protect the existing falling sea wall at Inver. The council accepted this funding and €34,889 was drawn down. In 2020, the OPW approved funding of €18,000 for Donegal County Council for rock armour along the lines of the existing gabions at Inver in order to protect the latter from further damage. Progression of these works is a matter for Donegal County Council. In his next contribution, the Deputy might flesh out the issues Donegal County Council has. I could then, perhaps, follow up with my officials in the Department.
The OPW is close to finalising a review of the minor flood mitigation works and coastal protection scheme. One of the issues under consideration as part of that review is the possibility of funding the maintenance of works carried out under the scheme.
The Government recognises the risk associated with climate change. The Climate Action Plan 2021 notes that increases in sea levels and storm surges will result in increasing frequency of coastal flooding and erosion. In response to these challenges, the Government has established an interdepartmental steering group on coastal change management to develop a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to the challenge of coastal change through the implementation of the recommendations in the report of the interdepartmental group on the national coastal change management strategy.
The Deputy might expand on what he said earlier in order that I can follow up by arranging a meeting between Donegal County Council and the officials.
The minor works scheme allows local authorities to apply for funding that is approved by the OPW. There are obviously technical aspects to it. The local authority then carries out the works. Perhaps Deputy Pringle would flesh out the matter a bit more, in a practical sense.