Ms Clare McGrath:

Deputy Burke is correct. It is the case that we have to manage for flood risk. We cannot necessarily defend against all flood risk. We have to manage it. The programme is identifying those at the greatest level of risk, in other words, people in communities. This has been the main focus of the CFRAM programme. It is around coastal and fluvial risk. It is recognised that there are problems in areas outside of that, particularly smaller numbers of houses or smaller communities. Since 2009, in recognition that the policy was moving in this direction, we have introduced the minor works programme. Under this programme, local authorities can come forward having identified feasible schemes and there is funding up to a cap of €500,000. They may need support and consultancy in determining the nature of such schemes. They can come forward and we will fund them. This programme recognises that there will be other scenarios. It is the case that benefit will accrue if there is a risk to a home, and such schemes are available. The Comptroller and Auditor General referred to the €35 million expended in this area since 2009 on 534 schemes. Some 5,000 properties might be affected. I am not suggesting some of these do not overlap with the CFRAM programme but we recognised the need while CFRAM was being developed. It is not that there is nothing in other areas, but the focus of the CFRAM programme is on communities where we are getting the greatest benefit and where there is potentially the greatest impact of flooding.

I will come back to the committee on what Deputy Burke said about the area outside Athlone - I cannot confirm it. However, in the case of Athlone the OPW has recognised the situation. Along with Westmeath County Council, which is leading on the project, we are bringing forward a scheme for Athlone. I can provide the committee with a list of the schemes. The relevant areas include Claregalway and Dunkellin. There are schemes on-site and coming on site in numerous areas throughout the country. The work is continuing and the minor works are continuing as well.