Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 December 2013
113. Deputy Anne Ferris asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the target dates for inviting tenders, appointing a new contractor and recommencing the Bray flood defence works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54635/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra114. Deputy Anne Ferris asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the interim measures planned to provide the maximum possible flood defences in Bray this winter; if this is to include the clearing of the great quantity of gravel and other debris that has accumulated in the part of the river known as the Slang and the removal of the obstacle caused by the temporary bridge structure at Rehill's Land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54636/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 113 and 114 together.
I am advised that Bray Town Council is currently working actively on progressing the procurement arrangements for the outstanding works on the River Dargle flood relief scheme and the Council is aiming to be in a position to avail of the 2014 environmental window to the fullest extent possible for the carrying out of 'in-river' works. The opportunity of carrying out certain advance works prior to the placing of a main contract is also being investigated.
Maintenance and reinstatement works have been undertaken in recent days by Bray Town Council, including reinstatement of roads and footpaths, sealing small portions of walls and securing the fencing along the site. The removal of additional material at the Slang is not proposed until the 'in-river' season (May to September).
The OPW understands that engineering mitigation measures had been incorporated into the works already carried out to make allowance for the installation of the temporary bridge structure at the Slang/Rehill's Land, including the provision of a secondary flow channel and excavation of material at the south riverbank to widen the river channel.
I am advised that the works that have been constructed to date (including the construction of the culvert at Bray Bridge) will have a significant beneficial affect in alleviating flood risk. I would again reiterate that Bray Town Council and the OPW remain fully committed to completing the Bray flood relief scheme to provide the standard 1-in-100 year level of protection and every effort is being made to achieve this objective as soon as possible.
