John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 218: To ask the Minister for Finance if planning permission was obtained by the OPW for the erection of a timber fence along the river bank at Maudlin St, Kilkenny; if a more appropriate fence will be considered, allowing those who use small boats and canoes to access the river at this point as they did before the scheme was put in place; if local residents will be consulted; if the issues will be resolved immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2945/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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A comprehensive package of safety measures have been included in the drainage scheme works to counteract potential dangers to public safety. These measures were agreed between the OPW, the local authority and representatives of the various local water safety and water based sporting groups. It was agreed, as part of these measures, that fencing would be provided along the riverbank at places where sloping rock armour has been placed.

As there is a section of rock armoured riverbank at Maudlin Street, Kilkenny, a timber post and rail fence has been erected in accordance with the agreed safety measures. The OPW did not obtain planning permission for the erection of this fence as it was informed by the local authority that it was not required for a fence of this nature.

As the rock armour protection does not extend along the entire length of the riverbank between Maudlin Street and the pumping station, consultation with the local authority will take place over the next few days as to the most appropriate cut off point for the fence. In making this decision, public safety will be the paramount consideration.