Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 December 2017
70. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if additional flood defences will be put in place in the midlands as a result of recent flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52447/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe core strategy for addressing areas at potentially significant risk from flooding is the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme. This Programme is focussing on 300 Areas for Further Assessment (AFAs), mainly in urban locations nationwide, identified as being at potentially significant risk of flooding. Seven AFAs were identified in County Laois, five were identified in County Longford, nine were identified in County Offaly and three were identified in County Westmeath.
Feasible flood risk measures, both structural and non-structural, were identified in draft flood risk management plans which were the subject of public consultation in 2016. The final Plans are currently undergoing an independent review of the environmental assessments by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
I would hope early in 2018, to seek the approval from the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform for the Flood Risk Management Plans developed under the CFRAM process.
Thereafter, I would hope to announce the proposed structural measures contained within those Plans that will be taken, through a prioritised approach over the coming years, to detailed design to protect those communities at assessed risk.
