Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In 2014, the memorandum of understanding was signed between the OPW and the insurance companies so the sharing of information about flood warnings and the impact of it can be factored into the commercial decisions to be made by the insurance industry. It is not as simple as the companies saying they will provide insurance regardless of whether a premises has flood defences. Many other issues must be dealt with. As the Deputy knows, even when the flood relief works are in place, in some cases the water meets a high tide, backs up through the shores and goes behind the walls and up through the houses. These are physical and geographical limitations and challenges as to what must be done. In Mallow, Clonmel, Ennis and Fermoy the defences have worked well. A capital programme has been laid out for the next ten years and €1 billion is allocated to it, with €430 million over the next six years. The list is there, if the Deputy cares to read it. Reliefs are under construction and at design stage. I object to Deputy Martin saying it is not worthwhile for the Minister of State responsible to go the areas and meet the people affected. The Minister of State, Deputy Harris, will do it.

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