Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)

I am delighted the Deputy mentioned the interim work. Cork County Council commissioned consultants to complete the design of the interim work on flood measures for Ballyvourney and Ballymakeera. The Office of Public Works approved funding of €500,000 to Cork County Council under the OPW minor flood mitigation works and coastal protection scheme for the provision of temporary flood defence measures in the area. The works, which were completed recently, include a sandbag defence structure, increasing the ground level with ramps and the installation of two non-return valves.

This is a lot of work and it has been ongoing for some time. The Department is working closely with Cork County Council and the works are advancing. As the Deputy knows, there are options available and the consultants and the Department are working together closely. Interim measures were carried out but if there are other interim works that can be done, I ask the Deputy to raise them with the local authorities and we will fund them through the Department.

We come to this House every week and questions are put to us but I put it to Members that there is a lot we can do ourselves as regards working with the councils. The Government has provided the funding through the minor works scheme and is proactive in ensuring money is spent. In regard to the long-term solution the Deputy is seeking, we are working very closely with the local authorities to develop a plan.

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