Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)
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Question 333: To ask the Minister for Finance the position regarding the Clonmel flood alleviation scheme including date of commencement, cost, phasing, early warning scheme and the arrangements agreed for the erection of the demountable defences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34668/06]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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Detailed designs of the River Suir (Clonmel West) Drainage Scheme is currently underway. It is hoped to advertise for a civil works contractor to undertake the main construction of this scheme in January 2007. Tenders have already been received for two elements of advance works on this scheme and are currently being considered. These elements involve the embankments contract for Clonmel West and the overall project design and supply of the demountable flood defence barriers. It was hoped to commence the embankment works before the end of the year but this is now unlikely due to the risk of deteriorating weather. These works will be undertaken as early as possible in 2007.

Detailed design of the Clonmel North Scheme will commence during the construction phase of Clonmel West. Similarly, the design of the Clonmel East Scheme will be undertaken during the construction of the preceding Clonmel North Scheme. OPW hopes to complete the overall construction works over a five year period. The overall project is estimated to cost €44 million based on current pricing conditions.

While the development of the flood relief scheme for Clonmel has been ongoing the OPW has been developing an early flood warning system, which will be required for the erection of the demountable flood defences. An interim system has been designed and is currently in use which provides 5 — 12 hours warning of a flood, with decreasing reliability as the warning period extends. The final system is expected to be in place in 2007 which will increase the warning time available.

The Office of Public Works has been in discussions with relevant bodies in relation to the erection of the demountable defences. Clonmel Borough Council will be responsible for the erection of these defences when the schemes have been completed. Discussions have also taken place with other interested and relevant bodies who will provide a back-up service to the local authority. The finer details of these arrangements have yet to be put in place but the OPW is endeavouring to have these arrangements completed at an early date.