Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Regarding the islands, Kerry County Council needs to assess the problem and see if there is a viable solution. If it does, it is welcome to submit a minor works application which would then be assessed by the Office of Public Works, OPW, to see if there were cost-benefit elements to it.

I have seen the devastation experienced by businesses caused by flooding. In the case of Nutgrove Avenue, Rathfarnham, it is up to the local authority to devise a solution and then apply for funding under the minor flood works mitigation scheme.

I thank Senators Byrne and Burke for their acknowledgment of the good work of the OPW in this area. I am proud of the staff we have working in the OPW around the country and the positive contribution they make. I will revert to Senator Byrne on the recent flooding in Ashbourne, County Meath, with the most up-to-date information. OPW officials have met with Meath County Council to come up with solutions to the flooding problem there.