Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

I am glad to hear of the plans to commemorate the Battle of Clontarf. We need to have as many tourism initiatives as we can. This was central to the discussions on tourism promotion at the recent economic forum.

Balance is the essence of the issue the Deputy raised. If this issue had arisen last February or March, when there was extensive flooding in Dublin city, we might have had a different type of debate. We need to ensure that proper flood protections are put in place with the least environmental impact on the residents involved.

I will pass on the Deputy's deep concerns to the Minister of State in my own Department who is in charge of the OPW and to the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

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