Flood Prevention Measures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 January 2021

Thursday, 28 January 2021

Questions (70)

Denis Naughten

Question:

70. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question Nos.102, 104 and 106 of 21 January 2021, and in view of the fact that flood waters are now nine centimetres higher than the record high water level of April 2020, if he will provide immediate assistance to the homeowners and farmers impacted; his plans to convene the roundtable meeting with all stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4853/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

I am advised that localised flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each local authority to investigate and address. I recognise and understand fully the difficulties and the distress that the current high water levels in Lough Funshinagh are having on the local community.

I have met with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D. to discuss the issues in relation to Lough Funshinagh and we continue to monitor the situation. I have also written to Malcolm Noonan, T.D., Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform in relation to the environmental designation status of the Lough. In the interim those property-owners in the locality of the Lough who have applied for the Government’s Voluntary Homeowners Relocation Scheme are being advanced through this Scheme by my Office.

My Office and the relevant State bodies are available to meet with Roscommon County Council to identify if any further actions can be taken to address the issue.