Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014
320. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the implementation of the 2005 Royal Haskoning report on flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8009/14]
View answerDublin City Council commissioned the study referred to, the Dublin Coastal Flooding Protection Project Study, in 2005 with funding provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW). The Study examined the causes and impacts of flooding in the area from Portmarnock on the northern side of the City to Booterstown on the Southern side.
The main aims of the Study were to:
- Undertake a strategic examination of the risk to Dublin and Fingal from coastal flooding
- Identify appropriate strategies and policies to combat and manage that risk
- Identify options to reduce and/or manage the risk and to identify any capital funding required to deliver on the recommended strategy
- Specify an early warning system for coastal flooding.
Some of the recommendations have since been carried out by Dublin City Council with funding from the OPW, including the flood relief works on the River Tolka and Spencer Dock. Significant works have also been undertaken on the River Dodder with the tidal section now almost completed and further works under way in the area up to Ballsbridge. It is also understood that the City Council intend to commence flood defence works on the South Campshires on the River Liffey later this year.
The City Council has also undertaken some works in the Sandymount area with longer term works to be investigated later this year. It is understood that works are also to be carried out near the Bull Island Causeway later in 2014.
As the Deputy will be aware, Dublin City Council developed a flood relief scheme for Clontarf but it was rejected by the public. It is understood that discussions are ongoing with local residents and businesses before new proposals can be developed. Progression of any further measures recommended in the report would be a matter for the Council in the first instance.
A tidal surge forecasting system has been developed for the Dublin Bay area and is operated jointly by Dublin City Council & Met Éireann. It is worth noting that Dublin City recorded its highest tide ever on 3rd January 2014 and had very minimal damages, as a result of works undertaken, compared to a similar tide in February 2002 which flooded over 1250 buildings and caused over €60 million in damages.
