Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy will be aware that during and since the summer of 2020, I have had a number of opportunities to visit the west Cork area - not just Bantry, but also Clonakilty, Bandon, Skibbereen and Rosscarbery. In the intervening period, I have met the Cork county manager and his team to follow up on what exactly has been done in the interim period. The commissioner of the OPW with responsibility for flooding and the director of flood relief and responsibility for the OPW have also been constantly monitoring the progress that has been made.

While I accept there is concern among all Deputies and other public representatives in the area, we have made significant progress in some of the west Cork towns to which the Deputy referred. For instance, the works in Bandon and Clonakilty have been completed and the works in Skibbereen are almost complete. However, significant works in other west Cork areas need to be completed. I am aware that other questions on this matter are to be answered today and I accept there is frustration about the length of time being taken. I am sure Deputies will have an opportunity to air their frustration and perhaps I will be able to discuss how some of that frustration may be addressed later on.

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