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Coastal Protection.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2004

Tuesday, 30 November 2004

Questions (93)

Trevor Sargent

Question:

129 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the funding which is available for coastal protection in Wicklow; and if he will report on the long-term analysis he has carried out on the implications of global climate change on such coastal areas. [31244/04]

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Written answers

The Department's coast protection programme seeks to address the most urgent instances of erosion on the Irish coastline. Coastal erosion affects all coastal counties and is particularly prevalent on the softer coastline in the east and south-east of the country. The rise in sea levels associated with global warming is projected to lead to an increase in coastal erosion, because of rising mean water levels and expected increases in storm frequency and wave heights.

A value for money report in March 2002 highlighted the need for a more strategic focus in addressing the problem of coastal erosion in Ireland. In this respect the coastal protection strategy study commenced in 2003. The study will address the nature and extent of erosion at various locations and different types of coastline in Ireland and seek to identify the most effective means, technically, financially and environmentally, in responding to particular instances and types of erosion. It is expected that when this study is completed a more targeted approach to programme delivery will enable a greater level of efficiency to be achieved.

Under the coast protection measure of the National Development Plan 2000-2006, €52.01 million is identified for expenditure. Expenditure under this measure up to the end of 2003 was €29.1 million. Funding of €2.7 million is allocated to my Department for the coastal protection programme in 2004. Funding of €30,000 was allocated to Wicklow County Council in 2004 to undertake a study at Brittas Bay and a further €52,500 was allocated for a site investigation at Greystones.

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