Hildegarde Naughton (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

After the severe storm damage caused in recent years in various parts of the country, including Galway, there was a Government commitment to provide for coastal and river flood protection works. I am glad to say a risk assessment is now taking place in Galway with a view to drawing down funding from the OPW, the lead Government agency in providing long-term flood defences. The Government's catchment flood risk assessment and management, CFRAM, programme will consider the long-term effects of flooding, as well as the impact of climate change and rising tides. There will be a public consultation process in Galway and other affected areas across the country. I urge anyone affected by flooding to become involved in the consultation process. There will also be a risk assessment, the findings of which will contribute to a draft flood management plan for local areas. I also understand works on the Clare river in Claregalway are being held up by legal difficulties, but it is hoped they will be overcome shortly.