The matter raised by the Deputy relates to the Thonoge River, a tributary of the River Suir in Ballylooby, Co. Tipperary.
A small number of stones from a stone wall collapsed into the river, diverting water across to the opposite bank and causing some erosion. Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is working with Tipperary County Council on the proposal to use the displaced stones to rebuild the stone wall and a soft engineering solution to stabilise the opposite bank. Under the EU Habitats Directive an Appropriate Assessment, a Natura Impact Statement and a hydraulic assessment of the impacts of proposed work were required.
These reports determined that a planning application is necessary due to the possible effects of the works on the River Suir SAC. A tender process for the works is being undertaken shortly.