Gabrielle McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for coming before the committee. The disadvantage of coming last is many of my questions have already been asked. With regard to flood risk management, the witnesses spoke a lot about coastal flooding. The report mentions 300 areas, 66 of which are connected to the Shannon. In 2009, we were told major works would not be done because they would not be cost-effective and we would have to wait for the CFRAM report. To be parochial, I am concerned because in 2013, €71 million worth of work was done in places such as Mallow, Clonmel and Fermoy. When I was fighting for flood relief in my area, I was told the works would not be cost-effective and we would have to wait for the overall picture in the CFRAM report. Why have these works been done but not others? At the time, we were told various local authorities could receive small sums of money for minor works. What constitutes minor work? Of the money allocated, how much of it was drawn down and how much work was done? I speak in particular about the River Shannon. Those living in an area at risk of flooding have been waiting for the CFRAM report for a long time. I assume when the report comes out there will be a lead agency for the River Shannon which will be responsible for monitoring the river. There are many difficulties with regard to whether the OPW, Waterways Ireland or the ESB is responsible. Will this come out in the CFRAM report?

It seems a long time ago since Deputy O'Donovan spoke about rents. I was shocked to read €17 million was spent on rent for Revenue and €14 million was spent on rent for the Department of Social Protection. I am shocked because these are not new Departments. They have been in existence for a long time. Why do we spend this type of money on an annual basis renting property for a Department which will obviously be in existence for a long time? Why do we not consider buying premises or using premises we already own? It does not seem cost-effective or business-like. One would not do it if one was running a private business.