Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are serious problems with flooding in County Limerick, as there are in County Cork. I expect that the witnesses are reasonably familiar with the issues involved. In addition to tidal flooding, there has been flooding along the River Shannon as it flows down from Lough Derg. I have encountered many people who are unable to get flood insurance because their properties are on flood plains. I hope I am not going over old ground.

Have the witnesses had an opportunity to study in depth the draft CFRAM study that has been published? If so, what are their views on the study? Have they noted any significant changes from the previous maps that were prepared? Everyone agrees in principle that flood defences should be put in place. Various types of flood defences are possible. Permanent defences can be erected and demountable barriers can be installed. I have been asking my colleague about the precise nature of these possibilities. It is probable that there is an in-between option as well. I refer to incarnations involving return valves, etc. I would like to hear the views of the witnesses on the current CFRAMS maps.

From a practical perspective, do they think it is legally possible under EU directives to force or oblige insurance companies to provide insurance? I agree with the principle of this legislation, which is to require insurance companies under their own models to provide insurance if certain types of flood defences are in place. I would like to see that happen, but I am concerned about practicalities and legal aspects such as compliance with EU directives. I appreciate that the question of the practical implications on the ground is a difficult one. I welcome this initiative.