Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2019
373. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will consider making instream design and delivery services to the OPW a priority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40580/19]
View answerI refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 750 of 11 June 2019.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for delivering Ireland’s statutory drainage objectives. It is an existing priority for my Department and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) that, in line with our statutory remit, the advice and guidance to OPW under agreement between the bodies seeks to ensure that these objectives are achieved with an appropriate focus as regards protection of fishery habitats and resources.
IFI and OPW currently work under a shared agreement, signed in 2018. I understand that the OPW published 'Environmental Guidance: Drainage Maintenance & Construction' in 2019. The aim of this document is to help OPW Drainage Maintenance staff to carry out their activities in an environmentally sensitive and sustainable manner, and where relevant to implement this guidance for construction works. IFI continues to support OPW in this regard.
