Vol. 560 No. 1
291 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance the progress in relation to the provision of a playwave as part of the River Nore flood relief scheme; if his Department will prepare and cost such a proposal; if it can form part of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1798/03]
At the request of Kilkenny City Council, the Office of Public Works is investigating the feasibility of constructing a playwave on the River Nore in Kilkenny city. An expert in the design of such constructions has been contacted in Britain to ascertain his views. Details of the New Bishops Weir, which is currently under construction, along with the historical flow rates within the River Nore have been forwarded to the expert for his assessment.
If it proves feasible to provide the playwave, the issue of who would take responsibility for its construction and provide the necessary funds would have to be resolved. There is no provision for this in the budget for the flood relief scheme and I am keen to ensure that available funding is not diverted from essential aspects of the scheme. There are also other issues such as safety, design, and maintenance to be borne in mind. These matters can be discussed with the city council after the feasibility report is received.
