The Office of Public Works has created a Flood Hazard Maps website, www.floodmaps.ie, which carries valuable historical data on flood events, mainly from local archives, and this should be used as an interim measure by Planners and the General Public, in seeking to avoid unsustainable development. In relation to the current flood events, the Commissioners of Public Works have commissioned aerial photography of the flood extents, and will process this information for inclusion on the flood maps website.
As part of its flood awareness programme, the OPW has also developed another website, www.flooding.ie, which gives practical help and advice to homes and businesses that have flooded, or are at risk of flooding. It contains detailed information on how to prepare for flooding, and how to minimise effects and safety advice in the event of flooding.
The Commissioners of Public Works are preparing to go to tender for consultants to carry out a strategic review to assess cost benefits and operational structures for a National Flood Warning System. The purpose of undertaking a strategic review of options for Flood Forecasting and Warning (FF&W) is to:
(A) Examine the potential benefits that FF&W could achieve.
(B) Identify and assess the options for the delivery of such a service in Ireland, and
(C) To develop an appropriate and sustainable strategy for FF&W in Ireland.
The work will be undertaken by suitably qualified and experienced Consultants, procured following compliance with National or European rules, with the Office of Public Works funding the project and managing the review. A Steering Group involving the relevant stakeholders will participate in the review process, and time lines will be determined therefrom.