A number of environmental considerations associated with the proposed main flood relief scheme may need to be addressed in consultation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service. These can only be determined on completion of the appropriate assessment by our consulting engineers in accordance with the Article 6(3) of the habitats directive and an environmental impact statement. It is also a prerequisite that the scheme be exhibited by the OPW to elicit public reaction and if generally welcomed, the OPW will put it forward to the Department of Finance for confirmation and financial approval. Subject to everything proceeding as envisaged, it is hoped the scheme will be on the ground in 2011. However, the timescale will be influenced by a number of factors, including the scale of the proposed measures and the progression of the associated statutory consent processes. Every effort will be made by the OPW to ensure any approved scheme is implemented as quickly as possible.

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