Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the decision of the Leas-Cheann Comhairle to allow me raise this issue, and I thank the Minister of State, Deputy Harris, for his attendance in the Chamber this evening. He has taken a very hands-on interest not just in this scheme but in other west Cork schemes in recent times. This is the second time such an issue has been raised in this forum. There are three schemes in west Cork, at Bandon, Clonakilty and Skibbereen, which the Minister of State has visited. He also met representatives at Skibbereen last week, so I acknowledge the hands-on role that he has taken on the issue, which is appreciated.

We are all well aware of the difficulties people face and the damage caused to property by flooding. The problem is not just damage to property; it is the inconvenience and horror experienced by people, along with subsequent problems such as an inability to obtain insurance and the real fear that it may happen again. That is particularly the case in Bandon. The €10 million Bandon flood relief scheme was first commissioned by the Office of Public Works, in partnership with Cork County Council, following a flood in 2009. The 2009 floods damaged or otherwise affected homes and 190 business properties in Bandon, resulting in approximately €140 million in insurance claims across County Cork. Construction of the scheme was scheduled to commence last spring, but it suffered a major setback last week with the news that it would not start this year due to the possibility of a legal challenge at the pre-qualifying stage from a contractor who has not been placed on the list of contractors from whom bids will be invited. The scheme has suffered serious setbacks, and the latest news has been met with dismay, frustration and even anger locally. The town's planned new sewerage scheme has also been hit with delays, as Uisce Éireann has signalled its decision to redesign the project. These two issues are difficult for people to accept, and the town has effectively been left in limbo, as both schemes have been plagued with delays.

I appreciate that in response to several parliamentary questions raised on the matter, the Minister of State indicated that the Government remained fully committed to the provision of this important scheme for the people of Bandon. As each month passes by, people are becoming increasingly frustrated. Each passing month, particularly at this time of the year, allows for more potential flooding and the possibility of consequent distress and expense for residents and businesses.

I am again making the case that the delay must be addressed. The community, the local residents, the local businesses, the ratepayers and so on should not have to wait this long for this particular scheme. I accept the recent legal aspect could not have been predicted. We have to take this review very seriously and respond appropriately.

Can the Minister of State indicate whether the OPW is in a position to deal with the legal matters separately in order to allow the project to proceed to construction phase? Is it possible to give a timeline for the delivery of that scheme? I am continually grateful to the Minister of State for his interest in advancing this particular project. Some of the delays inexcusable and they add to the frustration but I hope the Minister of State will give me some idea of where the scheme lies.

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