Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 December 2009
59 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the steps which he is taking to provide funding for flood defences in the Shannon and Suck catchment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44910/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with national flood policy, and in compliance with the EU Floods Directive, the Office of Public Works is undertaking a Flood Risk Assessment and Management Study for each catchment in the country, including the Shannon and Suck catchment.
This Study will identify the areas in the catchment where there is significant flood risk, and will produce a plan of prioritised measures to manage that risk. It will consider both structural and non-structural measures, such as sustainable development and flood warning systems, which may be the appropriate way to address flood risk in some locations. The Study, which will commence in 2010, will enable the relevant Local Authorities, property owners and other interested parties to have a say in relation to the flood mitigation measures that will be taken forward. The report of the study will therefore provide the basis for managing flood risk in the catchment, including flood defences where these are considered appropriate. It will also provide an indication of the funding required to implement the measures it recommends. If a need for a major flood defence project is identified, it can be included in OPW's programme of capital flood relief schemes.
Pending the completion of the Study, OPW through the minor works schemes will work with the Local Authorities to identify areas that might benefit from interim localised mitigating measures. Under an initiative introduced this Summer, Local Authorities may apply to OPW for funding for minor flood mitigation works that meet specific economic and environmental criteria.
The OPW is currently completing works to relieve flooding at Clonlara in the Lower Shannon and has been in discussion with the IFA and the NPWS regarding the possibility of carrying out works in the Shannon Callows area.
