Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
352. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if he will provide a clear timeframe as to when the OPW will have all the flood defence measures completed in Athlone, given this work was to have been completed by the end of 2022 and has yet to happen; the reason for the delay; and when the work is now scheduled for completion. [12488/23]
View answerThe Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme is being led by Westmeath County Council with funding provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW). Construction of the Scheme is being undertaken directly by the OPW.
Defences are largely in place now in many areas of the Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme with 81% of the flood defences constructed. It is anticipated the works undertaken to date in conjunction with the implementation of Westmeath County Councils Emergency Response Plan would significantly reduce the risk of the town flooding during an extreme weather event.
Delays to the scheme were incurred as a result of prolonged elevated water levels on the Shannon, Covid-19 and the introduction of high quality masonry finishes to the flood walls.
There are still a number of ancillary works to be completed, such as pumping stations and masonry cladding and steelworks.
Progression of the works is in general, dependent on appropriate water levels in the Shannon to allow works to be carried out, and landowner permissions being in place. I have asked my officials to provide you directly with an updated schedule to include the expected completion of the scheme.
