I propose to take Questions Nos. 500, 511, 537, 552, 555, 558 and 559 together.
I have been very conscious that, as a result of the exceptional rainfall since mid-November, there are a number of areas throughout the country, but particularly in the West and North-West, which have been severely affected by flooding. It was with this in mind that I announced on 18th January, that the Commissioners of Public Works will work with Local Authorities to try to identify solutions to the various flooding incidents that have occurred.
The Local Authorities are the front-line responders where State sector assistance is required in the event of serious flooding. They are therefore likely to have information which, allied to the local knowledge of their staff will be invaluable in determining the most likely immediate cause of the flooding. This information when allied to the expertise of the OPW in dealing with river engineering, will assist in devising potential solutions to the individual problems in the most efficient manner possible. Where additional surveys or other information is needed this will be procured.
It is my intention that, where solutions are identified which offer an acceptable level of social and financial benefit and which are environmentally acceptable, that these will be implemented as quickly as possible. In most cases the flooding occurred from rivers or watercourses for which the Commissioners of Public Works do not have responsibility and in respect of which consequently they have very limited powers. We will therefore be relying on the full co-operation of the Local Authorities and of local landowners in many cases to implement remedial measures quickly.
Where it is not possible to find flood relief measures which are viable other flood protection measures may be considered.
With respect to Clonlara, County Clare, I am advised by the Commissioners that an engineer visited the area in December and that efforts to find a solution are ongoing.
With regard to South Mayo, OPW officials are in consultation with Mayo County Council regarding the flooding there. I understand they are making good progress towards identifying possible flood relief works for Crossmolina and Clyard, Kilmaine, and are continuing to seek solutions to the flooding problems in the other areas affected.
If issues arise in any case requiring consultation with other Departments contact will be made on a case by case basis at the local level as far as possible. An inter-departmental working group is not considered necessary at this stage.
The provision of Humanitarian Assistance is a matter for the Department of Social and Family Affairs. I have written to the Minister with copies of the Parliamentary Questions and representations which I have received on the matter.