Vol. 533 No. 6
190 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the progress which is being made in relation to the upgrading of the River Brosna in Mullingar, County Westmeath, in order to prevent urban drainage flooding from occurring in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9643/01]
The River Brosna forms part of the Brosna catchment drainage scheme. Under the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 the Commissioners of Public Works are obliged to maintain the works in proper repair and effective condition. The channel through Mullingar is maintained on a regular basis. This involves inspection, mainten ance of weed traps, channels and bridges. In the last two years all parts of the river in Mullingar have been maintained at least once, with many parts maintained more frequently. In addition, the commissioners propose to commission a study of the flood risk in Mullingar when the current restriction related to the foot and mouth disease has been lifted.
