Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 March 2019
264. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if planned flood relief schemes on the lower section of the river Shannon (details supplied) will progress as planned; if they are to be delayed in view of the national children's hospital overspend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13670/19]
View answerThe Flood Risk Management Plans published on 3rd May 2018 set out the measures proposed to address flood risk nationally over the 10 year period 2018 - 2027, and include 19 new flood relief schemes to protect towns in the River Shannon River catchment, in addition to the scheme already underway in Athlone.
Twelve of these projects have now been prioritised for implementation, as part of this ten year programme. The Office of Public Works (OPW) and the Local Authorities have been engaging pro-actively since the launch of the Plans to advance the implementation of these schemes. Engagement with the Local Authorities is on-going in relation to Springfield (Clonlara), Ballinasloe, Nenagh, Longford, Rahan, Castleconnell, Mohill, Leitrim, Clonaslee, Carrick-on-Shannon, Killaloe and for Limerick City, King's Island and environs and the procurement of consultants for the detailed design of these projects will commence in the near future.
The proposed works in the Clonlara (Springfield) area were the subject of a Part VIII planning application by Clare County Council in mid 2018, which was subsequently withdrawn in order to more fully assess certain environmental matters. A further application will be made shortly.
Arising from the Government decision of Tuesday 12th February 2019 in relation to capital reallocations related to the cost overrun on the National Children's Hospital, the Office of Public Works is reviewing the most appropriate means of achieving the required capital savings of €3 million in the flood risk management area. Expenditure on any particular project or programme in any year is dependent on many variables related to the progress of the project and programme. The OPW can state that all capital projects committed to will be delivered.
