Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022
418. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the efforts that are being undertaken by the State to expand flood-relief measures beyond built-up areas (details supplied) in County Wexford to support low-lying houses in the area which are at risk from flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29150/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraA major flood relief scheme at New Ross is complete and under the Government's National Development Plan €1.3bn is being invested to 2030 in flood relief schemes. This includes schemes for Enniscorthy, Rosslare and Wexford Town that are at the design and planning. I would expect that the investment in these schemes alone will exceed some €80m when complete.
Fifteen other communities across Wexford are benefiting from €3m investment by the Government since 2009 to address local flooding issues, through the Office of Public Works Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal protection Scheme. Under the scheme applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for approved projects. Applications are assessed by the OPW having regard to the specific economic, social and environmental criteria of the scheme, including a cost benefit ratio and having regard to the availability of funding for flood risk management. Full details of all schemes are available on www.opw.ie. I note there are no current applications for works at Bridgetown, Duncormick and Wellingtonbridge in County Wexford under the Minor Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.
Following a significant flood event over Christmas 2021, Mr. Patrick O'Donovan TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works visited Bridgetown and Enniscorthy and saw at first hand and met those people and communities that were affected. During the visit the Minister advised Wexford County Council that assistance maybe available for those affected through the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme to help the Council protect at risk properties at this area.
Since that time OPW staff have met with Wexford County Council to discuss the scope of and the application process for the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme. The OPW will continue to provide assistance to the Council to identify viable solutions for these at risk properties.
