Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

I refer to insurance cover. Insurance companies are influenced by where flood defence schemes or even minor measures are being carried out. For example, I have been informed that in the case of Ballinasloe if certain simple things are done, insurance would be resumed. When the scheme is complete in Clonmel insurance will be provided, which has not been the case for several years. Deputy O'Donnell has put forward a valid point, which is why the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in conjunction with me, issued floodplain planning guidelines in December. Some of the problems are man made and the purpose of the guideline is to try to ensure as far as possible that they cease to be made, at least as a result of planning decisions. There will be a CFRAM, catchment flood risk assessment and management, study for the Shannon from the estuary up to the pot.

Some early warning systems are in place already but more need to be put in place and that is part of the plan.

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