Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)
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Question 248: To ask the Minister for Finance the position regarding the Clonmel flood alleviation scheme; the funding available for the scheme; the tendering process; the target commencement date for phase two of the scheme; the timescale for completion of the overall scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38109/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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Following the public exhibition of the flood relief proposals for Clonmel, which showed the project broken into three separate schemes, namely Clonmel west, Clonmel north and Clonmel east, a large number of observations were received. These observations have now been considered and replies have issued detailing any minor changes to the proposals. Site investigations are currently being carried out and it is hoped to have a report completed early in 2006. It is also intended to commence detailed design of the Clonmel west scheme once the site investigations are complete.

The tender process to procure a works contractor is expected to occur in the spring or early summer with a view to commencing construction in the autumn of 2006. However, the Office of Public Works and our engineering consultants are investigating the possibility of undertaking some aspects of the Clonmel west scheme some months in advance of the main works. The programme envisages the Clonmel west scheme being completed in mid-2008 which would then allow the Clonmel north scheme to commence with all three schemes being completed in a five to six year period. All the proposals outlined above are dependent on the necessary funding being available and on the approval of the Department of Finance to proceed.