As lead agency in the management of flood risk nationally, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has focused on a catchment-based context for managing flood risk, with more proactive risk assessment and management, and increased use of non-structural and flood impact mitigation measures. Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Studies (CFRAMSs) and their product — Catchment Flood Risk Management Plans (CFRMPs) — are at the core of this national policy for flood risk management and the strategy for its implementation. This policy is in line with international best practice and the requirements of the EU Floods Directive.
The OPW has been appointed as the national competent authority under the EU Floods Directive and as such will act as the principal coordinator in the production of CFRMPs for all national river catchments, which are due to be submitted to the EU by 2015. The programme for implementation of the CFRMPs is generally in accord with timescales set out in the EU ‘Floods' Directive. It is intended to complete the first phase by 2015. The Commission requires Member States to report progress on the implementation of the Directive. OPW is not aware of EU funding for these purposes.
In advance of the completion of the CFRMPs, OPW will continue to invest significant funds in terms of flood relief activities, capital works, drainage maintenance and hydrometric activities. The annual provision for like-for-like services has been increased by Government by 188% over the seven year period to 2010. OPW has already profiled expenditure in excess of €200m on around fifteen major capital schemes from now to 2014.
