Flood Risk Management

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 October 2023

Thursday, 26 October 2023

Questions (153)

Jackie Cahill

Question:

153. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if funding can be granted to premises on Friar Street, Thurles, County Tipperary, for the installation of flood gates or barriers at the entrances to the buildings on the street, as this street floods regularly during storms due to the insufficient storm water drainage systems in the town; if the OPW will take action to ensure that further damage is not caused to these buildings, considering this has been raised with the OPW on numerous occasions in the past and the OPW is already aware of this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47063/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform

I am advised that flooding events in Friar Street, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, are primarily a storm water drainage system issue. As Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), I can advise the Deputy that the OPW has no role or function in relation to the operation and maintenance of surface and storm water drainage infrastructure. Local authorities, in conjunction with Uisce Éireann, are responsible for the operation and maintenance of such infrastructure.