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

I do not disagree with the Deputy for one minute. While this issue has not fallen on the OPW, the OPW is gladly taking on this responsibility because it is our bread and butter. We require the input of other Departments to ensure that everybody plays a responsible role in this, because the issue of how our coast will change is a societal problem. As the Deputy quite rightly said, our coast will change. It will require all Departments to come to the table. We must ensure we put forward a cohesive plan that takes into consideration how every Department will bring its views to the table. The plan that we are going to bring forward ultimately will have to be a holistic one, and one that reflects the views of all Departments.

It is not for the lack of energy on behalf of the OPW, and we are trying to ensure that it is expedited as much as possible. I have spoken to the Deputy about the issue both within and outside the House. It is a priority for me. I hope to visit Galway in the next few weeks in response to the issue. I have visited other coastal communities. It is an issue that the OPW takes really seriously.

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