Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 January 2018
273. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the Office of Public Works has entered into an agreement with Limerick City and County Councils to carry out works at Portnard, Cappamore, County Limerick, to prevent flooding; and if so, when the works will be completed. [55265/17]
View answerThe Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the maintenance of Arterial Drainage Schemes and catchment drainage schemes designated under the Arterial Drainage Acts of 1945 and 1995. Under section 37 of this Act, the OPW is required to maintain designated drainage works in proper repair and effective condition.
OPW is responsible for the maintenance of the Mulkear River (Cappamore) Drainage Scheme, and some watercourses in the Portnard, Cappamore area. Regular maintenance is undertaken by OPW in accordance with its statutory obligations under the Arterial Drainage Acts for the scheme channels.
In December 2017, the OPW became aware of an obstruction to a watercourse in the Cappamore area. The matter was investigated and the obstruction removed. Unfortunately, the blockage has reoccurred and arrangements are currently being made address the issue. The OPW will continue to monitor the situation.
