Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
400. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 157 of 14 November 2023, if he has completed his investigation into this matter and if he can now provide a more substantive response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1488/24]
View answerOn foot of PQ No. 157 of 14th November 2023 the Office of Public Works (OPW) investigated the matter and can confirm that the location concerned does not form part of any Arterial Drainage Scheme which falls under the remit of the OPW under the 1945 Arterial Drainage Act. The OPW therefore has no responsibility for the maintenance of the channel, nor any authority to carry out any works there.
The property concerned is located within the Cromogue River Drainage District. Tipperary County Council has confirmed that they carry out maintenance work every year on this river which typically includes clearing of vegetation and blockages in the river channel. The Council has advised that removal of silt and dredging of the river bed is not feasible due to ecological and environmental constraints.
The OPW has requested that Tipperary County Council liaise with the property owner with a view to discussing the response to flood risk and events at this location.
