Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 199: To ask the Minister for Finance the position regarding the Clonmel flood alleviation scheme; the outcome of the public consultation process; the timescale for the scheme; if the scheme will be fast-tracked as it is outstanding for a considerable number of years with consequent hardship to homeowners and the business community due to severe flooding. [27643/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Proposals for alleviating the risk of flooding in Clonmel were placed on public display during the month of May this year. The exhibition was well attended and a large number of observations were received. These observations have now been considered by the Office of Public Works and the steering committee on the Clonmel project, which includes officials from Clonmel Borough Council and South Tipperary County Council, and responses are currently being prepared. Discussions are also ongoing with some landowners to resolve specific issues on the schemes.

Tenders have been received for the site investigation contract and are currently being examined, with the intention to proceed with the investigation work upon conclusion of the vetting process. A brief has also been prepared in relation to the supply of demountable flood defences and it is hoped to advertise for this shortly. The site investigation must be complete before the detailed design of the schemes can be undertaken. These investigations along with the detailed design, which will be followed by the procurement process for a works contractor mean that works could commence in the autumn of 2006. The OPW will carefully monitor the programme in order to commence works at the earliest possible date.