Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

It is a first phase. It prevented a substantial flood from entering the north of the town where, on previous occasions, havoc was caused to homes and businesses. Work has just commenced in Fermoy and work in Carlow is expected to commence in early 2010. Further details of schemes are in my full speech.

I wish to make the point that all OPW localised flood relief projects are intended to ensure that works do not cause flooding problems upstream or downstream of the location being protected. We introduced a small flood works scheme covering both inland and coastal areas. This has been activated and no doubt will be under great demand in the future.

I reiterate my deep sympathy for people who suffered loss or hardship as a result of recent flooding. As I had the opportunity to observe working extremely well in Clonmel last January, the community welfare officer is empowered to provide assistance to the worst affected residents with insufficient means or to whom insurance against flooding has been refused. The Government has also announced a scheme of emergency and humanitarian assistance and farm relief measures and has made application to the EU. I assure all citizens of the Government's continued determination to address, as an absolute priority, the threat of widespread flooding. This will include stepping up whatever we can do in connection with fresh vulnerabilities that have emerged in recent days.

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