Mr. Tony Smyth:

When we design a flood relief scheme, we normally look for protection against the one in 100 years event. In the case of minor works we will not have that level of protection. It is designed to give some measure of relief that is sensible and moderately costed. An independent hydrological consultant was appointed to look at the issue. What was done has helped to reduce flood levels by about 370 mm. That offers a good measure of protection to the house but not against a significant flood. It has improved the condition significantly for the small sums indicated. To do further work would require much more work on the channel, including underpinning a bridge, the cost of which would probably run into hundreds of thousands, if not more. That would not be cost beneficial in protecting one house and a length of road. The road is protected because the council also raised its level and the benefit has been gained for the expenditure of €13,500 to €15,000.

We paid 90% to the council. To go further would involve a great cost for very little additional benefit.