Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 July 2012
188 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the Office of Public Works plans to implement its plans for the alleviation of flooding in Clonakilty, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33722/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn relation to the identification of measures to address flooding issues on a long-term basis, the Office of Public Works is continuing to progress the programme of Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Studies. The studies will recommend an integrated management plan and prioritised measures to address flood problems in areas where there is significant risk in each major catchment in the country.
Clonakilty has been identified as an Area for Further Assessment (AFA) under the South West CFRAM study and will therefore be subject to a full flood risk analysis to identify appropriate mitigation measures.
I am very aware of the impact of the flooding of 28th June, 2012, having visited the town last week to meet with those affected and inspect the damage.
Following the flood event of 2009, the Office of Public Works provided funding of €350,000 to Cork County Council under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works Scheme for a serious of works to improve the capacity of the River Fealge, which burst its banks in November, 2009. Cork County Council has completed some of the required works and other works are still in hand.
Following a recent event, I am advised the Council has submitted an application to this Office on 4th July, 2012 for further funding of €1.216m to complete these works and also to address further issues which have arisen in the wake of the June event.
The current application submitted by Cork County Council will be considered having regard to the CFRAM study.
