Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2009
133 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Finance the action he has taken to alleviate the recurring flooding problem in Sneem, County Kerry, since this Deputy’s previous parliamentary question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8827/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works agreed in December last year to contribute to the cost of a study by Kerry County Council that will examine the causes of flooding in Sneem and make recommendations to address them. The OPW will consider any flood alleviation measures identified by the study that are cost effective and environmentally acceptable, having regard to the availability of resources.
134 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Finance if he will make funding available to the residents of an area (details supplied) who carried out emergency works to protect their homes from further flooding; if he will visit the area to view the serious nature of the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8828/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraResponsibility for Coastal Flood Risk Management and Coastal Erosion has only recently transferred to the Office of Public Works.
I am advised that the Commissioners of Public Works are not aware of a request to provide funding for works in this area. It would not be normal for the Commissioners to provide funding retrospectively for works which they did not authorise or for which they did not have the opportunity to examine and approve the design and construction.
OPW normally works closely with Local Authorities to address flood risk issues. I have asked my officials to discuss the problem at Incheree with the Council to establish if OPW now has any role in dealing with the issue. Depending on the outcome of that, the question of a visit will be further considered.
