Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

In May 2005, the OPW exhibited a set of proposals for dealing with the flooding problem in Clonmel. These proposals included the construction of new walls, embankments and surface water systems, bridge replacements and new supporting walls to accept demountable flood barriers. The entire project is broken into three separate schemes. As there will be extensive use of demountable barriers in these schemes, the OPW commenced the design of an early flood warning system in 2005 in order to have a system in place which the local authority would have confidence in when the first scheme is completed. The system is still undergoing development but has already proven consistent.

The first scheme for implementation is the Clonmel west scheme. Before construction can commence on the scheme, the proposals must be confirmed by the Minister for Finance, as required by the Arterial Drainage Acts. The documents relating to the confirmation of the scheme were forwarded to the Department of Finance and are being considered. The Clonmel west scheme is estimated to cost approximately €16 million, and provision has been made for this within the OPW's budget for flood relief activities. Tenders have already been received for the embankment elements of the west scheme and once the scheme is confirmed, the OPW expects to commence those works within a matter of weeks thereafter. The main Clonmel west contract would then be expected to commence in the third quarter of 2007 and last for 18 months.

When construction on the Clonmel west scheme is under way, detailed design will commence on the Clonmel north scheme. It is anticipated that construction of that scheme will commence on completion of the west scheme. Similarly, detailed design of the Clonmel east scheme is intended to commence once construction of the north scheme is under way.

The Deputy may be pleased to learn that I have also agreed to fund a separate contract to be carried out by Clonmel Borough Council for the removal of trees along the channel. I understand the necessary surveys are being carried out with a view to undertaking these works later this year during the next environmental window.

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