Written Answers Nos. 51-70
51. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport the current wait time for driving tests in the driving test centres that service the Dublin Fingal area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46778/23]
View answerUnder the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service. This includes the status of applications in Dublin Fingal. As such, I have referred to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days. On the broader issue of delays, the service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand, which has increased by 28% compared with 2021 figures. The Authority is currently providing an average of 4,000 tests per week, up 25% on this time last year. In light of ongoing high levels of demand, earlier this year the Authority reviewed the capacity of the service and, following a request for additional resources, my Department gave approval for the recruitment of up to 75 additional driver testers. This brings the total number of sanctioned driver tester posts to just over 200. This recruitment is underway and I have been advised that the first tranche of new recruits were deployed in September. It is expected that before the end of the year there will be a net increase of 42 driver testers and they will be allocated across the driver testing service with a focus on geographical areas with the longest waiting times and highest demand for tests. The RSA estimate that the agreed service level of average wait times of 10 weeks will resume in mid-2024.
52. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport for an update on phase 9 of BusConnects, which will service the Fingal communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46780/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. In both of those areas there have been significant developments since this Government came into office, with last year's publication of a new Sustainable Mobility Policy and its five-year action plan providing strong policy support to the continued expansion and enhancement of bus services. I am also delighted to say that this strong policy support has been backed up by increased levels of Exchequer funding, which is supporting the roll-out of initiatives such as BusConnects Dublin.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects Dublin. To date, 12 planning applications have been submitted by the NTA to An Bord Pleanála covering all 16 Core Bus Corridors, and decisions are awaited. Network redesign is ongoing with five phases of service redesign now live, showing increased passenger numbers on these routes.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, and your specific request relating to the Fingal area, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
53. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Transport to provide a breakdown of spending on public transport per capita for each county between 2017 and 2023, in tabular form. [46852/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the Authority's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's specific question in relation to a breakdown of spending on public transport per capita for each county between 2017 and 2023, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
54. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the number of new coach parking areas, by location, that were funded by the NTA in 2021, 2022 and to date in 2023; the number of new coach parking areas that will be provided in 2024, in tabular form; and if it is intended to future-proof the bays by including charging points for large-scale-coach EVs. [46864/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in our cities, including the provision of bus and Park and Ride facilities.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
55. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update in respect of the new Woodbrook train station (details supplied); the body that will fund this project; the expected delivery date; and if he will detail the plans to provide additional capacity on the rail network to accommodate development nearby. [46871/23]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the proposed station at Woodbrook.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
56. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport how many driving tests, on average, a driving tester carries out on a daily basis in Nenagh test centre, County Tipperary; if the centre operates over the weekend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46896/23]
View answer57. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport the number of individuals currently awaiting a driving test in Nenagh test centre, County Tipperary, who have either been provided with a test date, who have been invited to book a test date or who are awaiting an invitation to book a test date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46897/23]
View answer58. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport how many driving testers are employed on either a full- or part-time basis in Nenagh test centre, County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46898/23]
View answer59. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport the reasoning behind an individual not being able to book their driving test on the spot, and instead being required to join a lengthy queue to be invited to book their test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46899/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 56 to 59, inclusive, together.
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service. As such, I have referred the questions to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
On the broader issue of driver testing delays, the service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand, which has increased by 28% compared with 2021 figures. The Authority is currently providing an average of 4,000 tests per week, up 25% on this time last year.
Anticipating ongoing demand pressures, the Authority reviewed the capacity of the service and, following a request for additional resources, my Department gave approval for the recruitment of up to 75 additional driver testers in March of this year. This brings the total number of sanctioned driver tester posts to 205, which is more than double the 100 sanctioned testing posts in June 2022.
This recruitment is underway and I have been advised that the first tranche of new recruits were deployed in September. It is expected that before the end of the year there will be a net increase of approximately 42 driver testers and they will be allocated across the driver testing service with a focus on geographical areas with the longest waiting times and highest demand for tests.
The RSA estimate that the agreed service level of average wait times of 10 weeks will resume in mid-2024.
60. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport the reason the public toilets in the Bus Éireann station in Tralee have been closed for a number of weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46924/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The question raised by the deputy in relation to the reason the public toilets in the Bus Éireann station in Tralee have been closed for a number of weeks is an operational matter for Bus Éireann.
I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
61. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Transport if there will be a consultation period or if members of the public and local representatives will have any input into the changing of speed limits on local roads as part of the changes in speed limits on national roads (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46927/23]
View answerAs part of Action 6 of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, a review was undertaken to examine the framework for setting of speed limits in Ireland, including specific consideration of the introduction of a 30km/h default speed limit in urban areas.
The work was overseen by a Review Group co-chaired by the Department of Transport and Road Safety Authority. As part of the group's work, it carried out an assessment of the existing framework of speed limits, including the current guidance document for the ‘Setting and Managing of Speed Limits in Ireland’. The group also looked at best practice internationally as well as carrying out a modelling analysis of potential options.
This final review was published in September and work is now underway to develop new legislation and guidelines. It is expected that updated guidelines and legislation to give effect to the main recommendations made by the review will be in place in Q1 2024.
During the review itself, the group built upon the consultation undertaken as part of the development of the Road Safety Strategy and with a range of stakeholders on the specific issue of safer speed limits. Consultees ranged from state bodies involved in the management of the road network to road user groups representing various modes of travel. Further consultations are anticipated as the new Guidelines are developed and implementation progresses.
The Road Traffic Act of 2004, as amended, sets out the current legislative basis for the setting of speed limits. The Act applies ‘default’ speed limits to different classes or categories of road and allows for local authorities to intervene and set ‘special speed limits’, within limitations, on roads in their area. The making of bye-laws to set 'Special Speed Limits' is a reserved function of the elected members of a local authority. As such, a strong role for local representatives will be retained as safer default speed limits are implemented.
62. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider further the potential introduction of a scrappage scheme aimed at promoting the use of e-bikes in order to encourage commuters to use this mode of transport instead of private petrol and diesel motor cars, similar to a scheme introduced in France; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47019/23]
View answerThe Department is continuously exploring ways to encourage the uptake of cycling as a mode of transport. The popularity of e-bikes is growing and they serve to encourage an even wider demographic of potential cyclists to choose an active mode of transport over the private car.
I was pleased to see the thresholds for the Cycle to Work scheme increased by the Minister for Finance in Budget 2021 to include e-bikes and, in Budget 2022, cargo bikes; however it is noted that this scheme is not open to those who are not engaged in work. Initiatives such as a scrappage scheme similar to that introduced in France have merit, but must be assessed in order to achieve maximum impact and value for money.
The Department will continue to undertake research into the best possible interventions, including scrappage schemes, which could be introduced to encourage modal shift away from private car and encourage an uptake in e-bike usage across all demographics.
63. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Transport his views on progressing with a sense of urgency the N24 roads project, in light of numerous collisions on the N24, on both the eastern and western sections; if he has discussed the matter with Transport Infrastructure Ireland recently; if consideration will be given to reprioritising the N24 road project as a road safety measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47031/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
I can confirm that €1,000,000 has been allocated for the N24 Cahir to Limerick Junction scheme in 2023, with €2,000,00 being allocated for the N24 Waterford to Cahir scheme. As with all national roads projects in the NDP, the delivery programme for the project will be kept under review for 2024 and considered in terms of the overall funding envelope available to TII.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you regarding the status of these projects. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
64. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Finance if his Department, or any body under the aegis of his Department, has facilitated in-person or remote briefings on any issue from organisations (details supplied) from 2021 to date; if so, the topic discussed; the fees paid to the organisations for these briefings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46752/23]
View answerI wish to inform the Deputy that my Department has not hosted in person or remote briefings on issues from the organisations Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) and BelongTo.
The Department of Finance has had a number of staff partake in a Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform (DPENDR) talk on 'Gender Pronouns' hosted by BelongTo on 21st of June 2022 in conjunction with PRIDE Week.
Those bodies under the aegis of my Department who have facilitated briefings from TENI or BelongTo have advised as follows:
BelongTo and TENI provided briefings to the Central Bank of Ireland and the Investor Compensation Company DAC; no fee was paid for any of these briefings:
2021
•BelongTo presentation on ‘How to be an ally’ as part of launch of Allyship programme
•BelongTo contributor as part of a Pride 2021 event titled: #ProudToWorkForIreland
•TENI speaker at the event to mark the launch of Pride 2021 and Gender Identity & Expression in the Workplace policy and toolkit
•TENI facilitator of Gender Identity & Expression Awareness briefing to staff to align with our Gender Identity & Expression in the Workplace policy and toolkit
2022
•TENI facilitator of Gender Identity & Expression Awareness briefing to staff to align with our Gender Identity & Expression in the Workplace policy and toolkit.
•TENI contributor to Central Bank ‘What Pride Means to Me’ video for Pride 2022
2023
•TENI contributor to PRIDE 2023 event ‘Taking Pride in our Mental Health’ alongside internal Executive and Senior Leaders and keynote from Minister Mary Butler TD.
The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) Corporate Strategy, which is reviewed and updated on an annual basis, contains targets and deliverables to reflect progress on key projects and initiatives, including in the area of inclusion and diversity (Gender Matters, Disability Advocacy, LGBT+, and International and Multicultural Awareness). The NTMA provides business and support services and systems to Home Building Finance Ireland, the National Asset Management Agency and the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland; HR services are one such service provided to these bodies.
The NTMA had one session in 2021:
•TENI provided a remote information session on NTMA Workplace Gender Transition Guidelines and NTMA Gender Identity & Expression Policy. A fee of €4,000 (excluding VAT) was paid for assistance in the development of the NTMA Policy and Guidelines, and the provision of an information presentation to NTMA staff.
BelongTo provided briefings to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners in 2022 and 2023:
2022
•BelongTo: (Two events) This information session provided an opportunity for Revenue staff to learn about the lived experience of LGBTQ+ young people today in Ireland. A fee of €1,000 (excluding VAT) was paid.
2023
•BelongTo: (One event) This information session provided an opportunity for Revenue staff to learn about the lived experience of LGBTQ+ young people today in Ireland. A fee of €1,000 (excluding VAT) was paid.
65. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Finance when the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeals can recommence its clinics, considering that there have been no clinics since November 2021 and that there are over 1,000 appellants on the waiting list to have their appeals dealt with; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46802/23]
View answerProgress has been made on efforts to convene a new Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeals (DDMBA), to secure new hosting arrangements for the DDMBA and to recommence the appeals process.
I have now formally appointed all five members to the new DDMBA. Funding arrangements between the Department of Finance and the Department of Health have been agreed. On this basis the National Rehabilitation Hospital has indicated that they will again host the DDMBA. Preparatory work is underway, that will include due deliberation on how best to clear the backlog. The appeals process will re-commence upon completion of this work. In parallel, my officials are working with the NRH to conclude other conditions for new hosting arrangements, which may continue after the appeals process is again up and running.
I appreciate that it has taken far longer than anticipated to get to this point. With the Department of Health we have had to run four Expression of Interest campaigns over 18 months to source the legislatively required five members. We have also had to re-negotiate new hosting arrangements with the NRH following their withdrawal of services in February 2023.
Finally you should note that I have no role in relation to the granting or refusal of PMCs and the HSE and the Medical Board of Appeal must be independent in their clinical determinations.
66. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 104 of 18 October 2023, if he will specifically address the issue raised therein regarding the rationale for the €80,000 threshold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46842/23]
View answerThis Government is acutely aware of the impact of rising interest rates and mortgage costs on many taxpayers. It is for this reason, I introduced a temporary one-year, targeted form of mortgage interest tax relief as part of Budget 2024.
As previously outlined, in reply to Parliamentary Question 104 of the 18 October 2023, it is not possible or desirable for the Government to alleviate the full impact of the increased interest rates for all mortgage holders.
In relation to the Deputy’s specific question, this Government is of the view, that taxpayers with mortgages balances of less than €80,000 on 31 December 2022, are in general more likely to be in a relatively strong financial position in comparison to those with larger mortgage balances. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that they should have greater capacity to absorb the impact of the recent increases in mortgage rates.
In addition, such individuals are likely to have significant amounts of equity built-up and have relatively low “loan to value” ratios. This means that such individuals should have better opportunities to switch their mortgages and obtain more favourable interest rates, which will ultimately reduce their interest liability without the need for Government intervention.
Finally, it is important to point out that if the qualifying threshold for mortgage balances had of been set below €80,000 then it would have resulted in a less targeted scheme and as a consequence increased the cost on the Exchequer.
67. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Finance if Ireland will be supporting the adoption of a United Nations tax convention under the proposal set out by the UN Secretary General (details supplied). [46844/23]
View answerOfficials in my Department have been actively considering the report by the Secretary General of the United Nations on possible options for an enhanced role for the UN in international tax matters with a view to improving the inclusivity and effectiveness of global tax rules.
Ireland recognises the important role the UN has to play in supporting and enhancing international tax co-operation globally, especially in relation to domestic resource mobilisation, and we look forward to participating in the discussions developing the report into a deliverable outcome over the coming months.
We believe that in progressing that work it will be important to ensure that developments at the UN are as complementary and co-ordinated as possible with on-going work at the OECD and do not undermine or duplicate the ongoing work, which is in its final stages, and should be allowed to come to fruition. Ireland signed up to the OECD two-pillar solution in October 2021 and we intend to follow through on that commitment. Global implementation of the agreement is crucial to the stability of the International Tax framework.
The OECD have a proven record of accomplishment in delivering international tax reform. The BEPS project developed 15 actions which as well as limiting the aggressive behaviours of MNEs introduced a new framework for tax transparency. This considerable achievement should not be underestimated.
Besides the Inclusive Framework on BEPS, the OECD have facilitated significant developments in international cooperation, including the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes. The Tax Inspectors Without Borders initiative is an example of how the OECD’s policy expertise, standards and networks can be combined with the operational capabilities of the UN to contribute to tangible development results.
Ireland is also working closely with its EU partners in this matter and a common position on the UN proposals was submitted by the Presidency of the Council of the EU in September on behalf of all Member States. That position welcomed the opportunity to progress these discussions and supported option 3 of the UN report, i.e. working at the UN on a non-binding multilateral agenda for coordinated actions in a way that it avoids duplication with existing international tax agreements and facilitates parallel and sustained progress at the OECD. We are continuing to engage closely as the proposal progresses through the UN.
It is important that we all work to enhance co-operation instead of creating divergent positions or parallel processes, especially with regard to international tax. We will continue to engage with the process and are looking forward to seeing the ultimate outcome
68. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Finance the amount of debt still warehoused under the tax debt warehousing scheme; the amount of this debt per division; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46867/23]
View answer69. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Finance the amount of tax revenue lost as a result of a company becoming insolvent that had tax debt warehoused under the tax debt warehousing scheme; the amount of tax revenue lost, in tabular form; to provide a breakdown, by amount of tax revenue lost per division; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46868/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 69 together.
The Tax Debt Warehousing Scheme has offered valuable and practical liquidity support to businesses during the COVID pandemic and continues to support businesses as they recover from the impacts of the pandemic and the current energy crisis. It has assisted businesses with their cash-flow during difficult trading periods, preventing business failure. The objective of this scheme is to allow firms help to recover thereby helping to guarantee their long-term economic viability and survival.
The scheme applied to VAT debts, PAYE (Employer) debts, certain self-assessed income tax debts and overpayments of both the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) and the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS).
The scheme allowed for the parking of the debt at 0 per cent interest up to 31 December 2022 (or 30 April 2023 for those in the extended scheme). A significantly reduced interest rate of 3 per cent, as opposed to the general interest rate of 10 per cent (or 8 per cent for income tax underpayments), applies from 1 January 2023 on the warehoused debt (or from 1 May 2023 for those in the extended scheme).
A significant extension to the scheme announced in October 2022 means that businesses have until 1 May 2024 to make arrangements to repay their warehoused debt. Importantly, businesses are still able to avail of the reduced 3 per cent interest rate from 1 January 2023 when they come to pay the debt.
I am advised by Revenue that the total debt eligible for the Debt Warehousing Scheme since its introduction is €31.9 billion, with over 250,000 businesses eligible to avail of the scheme. As at end-September 2023, almost 94% of that debt has been paid, leaving a balance of €1,872 million in the warehouse. In addition, 2,130 warehoused customers had, at end-September, agreed instalment arrangements for an aggregate warehoused debt of €113 million using Revenue’s flexible phased payment facility.
The value of debt warehoused at end-September 2023 is outlined below, broken down by Revenue Division.
|
Revenue Division |
€ Million* |
|
Business |
1,167 |
|
Medium Enterprises |
573 |
|
Large Corporates |
108 |
|
Personal |
19 |
|
Large cases – High Wealth individuals |
6 |
|
Total |
1,872 |
*Any variance in total figures is due to rounding
It remains a key condition of the Debt Warehousing Scheme that current liabilities are filed and paid on time. Revenue is actively engaging with businesses in the scheme to ensure they are complying with this key condition in order to retain the benefits of the scheme. Where payment difficulties arise, particularly in relation to current tax obligations, I am assured that Revenue will work proactively with businesses who engage early to resolve these payment difficulties. Revenue has a proven track record in agreeing flexible Phased Payment Arrangements to allow for the repayment of debt over a period of time.
Revenue have further advised that by end-September almost €74 million of debt previously warehoused by 716 businesses was lost due to those businesses becoming insolvent, a breakdown by Revenue Division is outlined below.
|
Revenue Division |
€ Million* |
|
Business |
€45.30 |
|
Medium Enterprises |
€21.66 |
|
Large Corporates |
€6.78 |
|
Personal |
€0.15 |
|
Total |
€73.89 |
*Any variance in total figures is due to rounding
Revenue’s expectation is that the extended timeline, to 1 May 2024, for entering into arrangements for repaying warehoused debt, together with flexible payment arrangements, will assist most businesses to work through any difficulties and will satisfactorily address the repayment of their tax debt, including any warehoused debt, over an acceptable period of time.
70. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the start and completion timeframes for each localised flood relief scheme including Midleton, County Cork; and the reasons for the delays in completion of each scheme. [46876/23]
View answerThe Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme – Ireland’s largest study of flood risk – was completed by the Office of Public Works in 2018. This studied the flood risk for two-thirds of the population against their risk of flooding from rivers and the sea. (It did not study flood risk from storm water capacity, which is a matter for the local authorities) An output of the CFRAM Programme, the Government’s Flood Risk Management Plans provide the evidence for a proactive approach for designing and constructing flood relief schemes for the most at-risk communities. The delivery of these Plans is supported by €1.3 billion through the National Development Plan 2021–2030 (NDP).
This investment has allowed the OPW to treble the number of flood relief schemes at design, planning, and construction to some 100 schemes. To date, 53 schemes have been completed, which are providing protection to over 12,000 properties and an economic benefit to the State in damage and losses avoided estimated to be in the region of €1.9 billion. Consequently, work to protect 80% of all at-risk properties nationally is completed or underway.
Major flood relief schemes involve complex engineering and construction operations that can impact on people's living, built and natural environment and, therefore, require lengthy planning and decision lead-in times.
The process follows a number of stages from feasibility through design, planning, detailed design and construction. It is important that the work is done correctly and achieves its objectives. Extensive and detailed technical analysis is required to establish the most appropriate solution, technically and environmentally, from a range of possible mitigation options. The solution has also be adaptable to the increased risk from climate change.
Extensive public consultation is required at various stages to ensure that those affected by a scheme have the opportunity to input into its design and implementation. Ecological and archaeological issues often require in-depth analysis in order to ensure that the technical solution selected will meet the requirements of existing EU and national environmental legislation.
At all times, the OPW strives to expedite and progress capital flood relief works with the minimum delay within the resources available to it. A Steering Group for each major scheme is in place that meets monthly typically to review progress, risks and programme. Delays against profiled programme can occur due to a variety of constraints and factors including:
• demand in the market for surveys. Any flood relief scheme needs to map and understand the location and the flooding sources and constraints. This is achieved by extensive and wide-ranging surveys to understand the topography, hydrology and environment of a community.
• extended timeframe against profiled time to obtain planning decisions, as well as non-programmed time for managing judicial reviews to those decisions. While this is part of the natural process, it can cause a delay in starting announced works in a community.
• designing flood relief is a very specialised area of engineering. As a result, the scale of programme delivery is at times limited by the resources available.
Delays to a profiled programme can extend the targeted timeframe required to deliver a completed flood relief scheme to a community. As well as through strong project management, by means of Steering Group structures, local authorities will, where it is feasible, bring forward advance works or some minor works, prior to the main scheme being completed. These can be funded by the OPW and can mitigate the impact from a flood event.
Cork County Council is leading on a flood relief scheme for Midleton. An option for a flood relief scheme for Midleton to protect some 580 properties, including 400 homes, has emerged following extensive analysis and engagement. The scheme will provide protection against flooding from the Dungourney and Owenacurra Rivers. The Environmental Impact Assessment Report is being prepared for this preferred option. The current programme for this scheme is that the planning process will commence in 2024.
Table 1 below provides a list of the 68 major flood relief schemes, including the current status of the scheme. Table 2 provides information for the 30 small projects, which are led by the Local Authorities with funding from OPW.
Table 1. Major Flood Relief Schemes & their respective stages
|
Scheme |
County |
Status |
|
Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme |
Westmeath |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
Dodder Phase 2C, 2D, 2E Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
Glashaboy (Glanmire / Sallybrook) Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
Morell River Flood Management Scheme |
Kildare |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
River Mall (Templemore) Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
Springfield Flood Relief Scheme |
Clare |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
Whitechurch Stream Flood Alleviation Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage IV: Implementation/Construction |
|
Arklow (Avoca River) Flood Relief Scheme |
Wicklow |
Stage III: Detailed Design |
|
Crossmolina Flood Relief Scheme |
Mayo |
Stage III: Detailed Design |
|
Dublin City (River Wad - Phase 1B) Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage III: Detailed Design |
|
Kings Island Flood Relief Scheme |
Limerick |
Stage III: Detailed Design |
|
Morrison’s Island Public Realm and Flood Defence Project, Cork |
Cork |
Stage III: Detailed Design |
|
Poddle River Flood Alleviation Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage III: Detailed Design |
|
Bride River (Blackpool) Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Stage II: Public Exhibition / Confirmation |
|
Lower Lee (Cork City) Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Stage II: Public Exhibition / Confirmation |
|
Raphoe Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage II: Public Exhibition / Confirmation |
|
Adare Flood Relief Scheme |
Limerick |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Athy Flood Relief Scheme |
Kildare |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Ballina Flood Relief Scheme |
Mayo |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Ballinasloe Flood Relief Scheme |
Galway |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Ballybofey - Stranorlar Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Ballymakeery/Ballyvourney Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Baltray Flood Relief Scheme |
Louth |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Bantry Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Buncrana - Luddan Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Burnfoot Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Camac River Flood Alleviation Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Carrick on Shannon Flood Relief Scheme |
Leitrim |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Castleconnell Flood Relief Scheme |
Limerick |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Castlefinn Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Cavan Town Flood Relief Scheme |
Cavan |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Dodder Phase 3 (Clonskeagh Road Bridge to Orwell Road Bridge) Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Drogheda Flood Relief Scheme |
Louth, Meath |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Dundalk and Ardee Flood Relief Schemes |
Louth |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme |
Wexford |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Galway City Flood Relief Scheme |
Galway |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Graiguenamanagh-Tinnahinch Flood Relief Scheme |
Kilkenny |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Kenmare Flood Relief Scheme |
Kerry |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Kilkee Flood Relief Scheme |
Clare |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Lifford Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Limerick City & Environs Flood Relief Scheme |
Limerick |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Loughlinstown Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Marlfield Lake Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Midleton Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Mountmellick Flood Relief Scheme |
Laois |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Naas Flood Relief Scheme |
Kildare |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Portarlington Flood Relief Scheme |
Laois |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Ramelton Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Rosslare, Co, Wexford |
Wexford |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Shannon Town and Environs Flood Relief Scheme |
Clare |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
South Galway (Gort Lowlands) Flood Relief Scheme |
Galway |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Tralee Flood Relief Scheme |
Kerry |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Wexford Flood Relief Scheme |
Wexford |
Stage I: Scheme Development and Preliminary Design |
|
Ballinhassig Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Business Case |
|
Carlingford & Greenore Flood Relief Scheme |
Louth |
Business Case |
|
Carrigaline Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Business Case |
|
Donegal Town Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Business Case |
|
Freshford Flood Relief Scheme |
Kilkenny |
Business Case |
|
Letterkenny Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Business Case |
|
Lough Funshinagh Flood Relief Scheme |
Roscommon |
Business Case |
|
Macroom Flood Relief Scheme |
Cork |
Business Case |
|
Malahide Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Business Case |
|
Nenagh Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Business Case |
|
Piltown Flood Relief Scheme |
Kilkenny |
Business Case |
|
Portmarnock (Strand Road) Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Business Case |
|
Sandymount (Phase 1 & 2) Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Business Case |
|
Sandymount (Phase 2) Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Business Case |
|
Skerries (Mill Stream) Flood Relief Scheme |
Dublin |
Business Case |
Table 2. Small Projects & their respective stages
|
Scheme |
County |
Stage/Gateway |
|
Ardee Flood Relief Scheme |
Louth |
Pre-Planning |
|
Ballyhale Flood Relief Scheme |
Kilkenny |
Pre-Planning |
|
Kerrykeel (Carrowkeel) Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Pre-Planning |
|
Westport (Cois Abhainn & Ashwood) Flood Relief Scheme |
Mayo |
Completion |
|
Athea Flood Relief Scheme |
Limerick |
Commencement |
|
Avoca Flood Relief Scheme |
Wicklow |
Commencement |
|
Bogganfin Flood Defence Scheme |
Roscommon |
Commencement |
|
Clifden Flood Relief Scheme |
Galway |
Commencement |
|
Clonaslee Flood Relief Scheme |
Laois |
Commencement |
|
Glenties Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Commencement |
|
Holycross Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Commencement |
|
Killaloe/Ballina Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Commencement |
|
Knocklofty Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Commencement |
|
Leitrim Village Flood Relief Scheme |
Leitrim |
Commencement |
|
Longford Flood Relief Scheme |
Longford |
Commencement |
|
Mornington Flood Relief Scheme Augmentation |
Meath |
Commencement |
|
Na Dúnaibh (Downings) Flood Relief Scheme |
Donegal |
Commencement |
|
Rathbraghan Flood Relief Scheme |
Sligo |
Commencement |
|
Abbeydorney Flood Relief Scheme |
Kerry |
Business Case |
|
Aglish Flood Relief Scheme |
Waterford |
Business Case |
|
Ballyduff Flood Relief Scheme |
Waterford |
Business Case |
|
Banna Flood Relief Scheme |
Kerry |
Business Case |
|
Bunratty Flood Relief Scheme |
Clare |
Business Case |
|
Carlow Flood Relief Scheme |
Carlow |
Business Case |
|
Golden Flood Relief Scheme |
Tipperary |
Business Case |
|
Kilrush Flood Relief Scheme |
Clare |
Business Case |
|
Leixlip Scheme |
Kildare |
Business Case |
|
Mohill Flood Relief Scheme |
Leitrim |
Business Case |
|
Rahan Flood Relief Scheme |
Offaly |
Business Case |
|
Rathkeale Flood Relief Scheme |
Limerick |
Business Case |
