Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 June 2021
283. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the OPW will provide funding to assist with the prevention of coastal erosion at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29723/21]
View answerIt is a matter for Local Authorities in the first instance to assess and address problems of coastal erosion in their areas. The OPW operates the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, under which applications for 90% funding to local authorities for small localised cost beneficial works are considered for measures costing up to €750,000 in each instance. Funding for coastal risk management studies may also be applied for under this scheme.
The local authority completes and submits the funding application for a project under the scheme and, in doing so, must have carried out the necessary preparatory work and preliminary investigations, costings and economic assessments. It is a matter for each local authority to ensure that all the necessary environmental, statutory and regulatory approvals are in place prior to any works being undertaken. I understand this location is at or near designated environmentally sensitive areas.
While Kerry County Council has made no application to the OPW for these works, I understand it is aware of the issue and considers they would not meet the scheme’s criteria. The Council may carry out coastal protection works using their own resources.
