Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 December 2017
69. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if additional drainage schemes will be put in place in counties Laois and Offaly in view of recent floods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52446/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for maintaining Arterial Drainage schemes completed under the 1945 Arterial drainage Act. The Boyne and Brosna Arterial Drainage Catchments contain scheme channels in Counties Laois and Offaly. In 2017, 98km of river channel was maintained in Offaly and 15km of river channel was maintained in Laois. The 2018 Boyne and Brosna maintenance programme will include 127km of river channel in Offaly and 3km of river channel in Laois.
Separately, Local Authorities are responsible for the maintenance of Drainage Districts in their area. I am engaging with the Minister of Housing, Planning and Local Government to examine the funding available for Local Authorities to fulfil these obligations.
