Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I understand the importance of this project. Enniscorthy has a long history of flooding. Following the extreme flood event that occurred in 2000, the Office of Public Works, in conjunction with Wexford County Council, undertook a study of the flooding problems in the town so it is not that it is a unique situation. I come from Waterford and the Deputy is well familiar with the glass wall defences on the city quay. The difference that they have made is unbelievable. I can remember the quay flooding and sandbags stacked in front of shops. Since those flood defences have been put in place there has been a massive difference.

If the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform confirms the scheme, then the tender for the new bridge construction will be advanced first, and the Deputy obviously knows that. Following contract or appointment the bridge works will be the first major element commenced with flood defence works along the river commencing thereafter and running in parallel. Enabling works involving service diversions are expected to commence in the coming months.

Turning to the query on foreshore licences in the original question, I have been advised that the foreshore consent application process is being managed by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The public consultation process is complete and the foreshore consent documentation has been referred to the marine licence vetting committee for assessment. The documentation is currently being assessed by independent environmental consultants.

Finally, I wish to acknowledge the huge amount of work that the Office of Public Works, Wexford County Council and their consultants have put into the development of this important scheme. I hope that we will see the progression of flood defence works in Enniscorthy at the earliest possible opportunity. I will convey the thoughts and concerns of the Deputy to the Minister, and I thank her for her time.

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