Mr. Enda O'Donovan:

I can assure the Deputy that we will forward the protocols to the committee. The protocols are the building blocks. If we know where the insurance companies are coming from then we can work with them to get cover. People who have had a previous flood event generally tile the ground floor, raise sockets, install flood barriers and so forth in order to mitigate any potential loss for the insurance industry but the industry ignores this. People who take action that will reduce the risk for insurance companies and lessen potential claims should get credit for that but the insurance companies do not even ask questions about this.

We have details on protocols for addressing low, moderate and significant risk. I know the OPW is talking to the insurance industry. When representatives from the industry appeared before this committee last September, they were asked if they acknowledged the work that was done by the OPW. They answered to the effect that they would wait and see. I do not know how many hydrologists work for the IIF but that response was frightening. The OPW, while it has its faults, is taking action on a scientific and sound engineering basis but the industry representatives who were here last September rubbished that work.

The industry must buy into protocols and it is up to Oireachtas Members to set out the rules and insist that they buy into them.