Vol. 527 No. 2
58 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the additional provision the Office of Public Works plans to make for flood relief having regard to the huge damage and disruption caused by recent flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27995/00]
The annual financial allocation to the Office of Public Works for flood relief is provided to meet the office's expenditure requirements on an ongoing programme of flood relief works. On the basis of the flood relief work programme of the Office of Public Works for the various schemes at design stage, funding has been provided to cater for those schemes which are anticipated to go to construction stage during 2001.
Given the complexity of the engineering design, the environmental factors and the potential impact of any proposed civil engineering works, it is necessary to consult with relevant local interest and local authorities. Consequently, any new areas brought to my attention as a result of the recent flood event, would not be expected to reach construction stage within a year. Additional funding is therefore not necessary in 2001. However, the Deputy will be aware that the Government are providing separate funding for a humanitarian assistance scheme to relieve hardship caused by the recent flooding and that the Irish Red Cross Society are implementing this scheme on the Government's behalf.
