Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The people in Midleton want to hear the facts rather than the politicisation of the issue, which is unfortunately what is happening here. I know that part of Cork very well and have a lot of family connections there. The people there want to know that there is a commitment in terms of finance, which there is. They also want to know that the scheme that is proposed to be developed will protect them in a Storm Babet-type situation. That work is almost concluded and will be given to Cork County Council. Thereafter, they want to be certain that when a planning application is lodged, it has a likely chance of succeeding. Unfortunately, in too many locations around the country at present - I am thinking of Lough Funshinagh and the road into Blackpool in Cork city - indicative dates are given in the absence of a planning objection or a judicial review, as the Minister, Deputy Donohoe, referred to in the preceding session, and then the project does not happen.