The Office of Public Works (OPW) has no responsibility in relation to maintenance of the River Liffey in County Kildare. The removal of debris would be a matter for the Riparian owners in this case. I understand that Kildare County Council is investigating Flooding at the Waterways Estate in Sallins. This will involve consultation with other agencies, including Irish Rail, Waterways Ireland and a management company, which is currently responsible for the housing estate in question. Kildare County Council is assessing the factors that gave rise to the flooding in the area. When the Council have completed their report on the flooding, the OPW will provide the technical advice on appropriate measures to be adopted to alleviate future flood risk in the area.
In recognition of the devastation suffered by people due to the recent flooding, the Government has launched a Humanitarian Assistance Scheme, which is being administered by the Community Welfare Service on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. The aim of the scheme is to provide financial support, subject to certain conditions, to people who have suffered flood damage to their homes Furthermore, Local Enterprise Boards have been invited to report to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment on the impact of the recent flooding on small businesses to which they provide a service.
