Michael Healy-Rae
Question:318. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of plans for the flood relief in Kenmare, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12691/21]
View answerWednesday, 10 March 2021
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Written answers
There is currently a steering group in place, comprising representatives of the Office of Public Works and Kerry County Council, to progress the Kenmare Flood Relief Scheme. Kenmare is being implemented as part of the first tranche of 60 new schemes that have been prioritised for implementation nationally as part of the Flood Relief Management Plans.
In October 2020 Kerry County Council issued a request for tenders for engineering design consultants and environmental consultants to the Office of Public Works’ framework of consultants. Three tender submissions were received and these submissions are currently being evaluated. It is expected to appoint a consultant in the coming weeks. The appointed consultant will be tasked with identifying and designing a flood relief scheme to alleviate the risk of flooding to Kenmare to a determined standard of protection and to procure, manage and oversee the construction of the scheme.
In advance of the larger Kenmare Flood Relief Scheme, interim works are currently being carried out. These works involve the clearance of vegetation (primarily overhanging tree branches) and debris along a stretch of the Keelnagower river which pose an immediate risk in a flood event as they may contribute to blockages of bridges as was seen in the recent flooding event in Kenmare, where a number of properties were flooded. The clearance of this vegetation will also allow for various surveys to take place (site investigations, environmental baseline etc.). An Environmental Screening was carried out to ensure that there would be no adverse environmental effects and the appropriate state agencies were consulted with regards to the works. These works are substantially complete.
A Coastal Wave and Water Level Study is due to commence in the coming weeks which will allow for the analysis of wave-overtopping and will form part of the overall flood relief scheme for Kenmare.