David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 64: To ask the Minister for Finance the plans of the Office of Public Works in relation to carrying out works on the weir in Fermoy, County Cork; the progress made in resolving certain issues in relation to the rowing club in the town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45323/08]

Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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The Office of Public Works has agreed in principle to a request from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, to facilitate the construction of a rock ramp fish pass at Fermoy Weir in the course of the execution of the proposed Flood Relief Scheme Works. This agreement is subject to the proviso that the proposal is agreed with Fermoy Town Council, and that its inclusion will not delay the progress of the Flood Relief Scheme.

In facilitating construction of the fish pass, OPW would be acting as agent for the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and Fermoy Town Council, which it is understood is the owner of the weir and which will be required to maintain the works.

Design of the rock ramp fish pass and consultation with the Town Council and other stakeholders is being undertaken by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

I am aware that Fermoy Rowing Club has expressed reservations about the impact of the proposed fish pass on its activities and that the matter is also of concern to the Town Council and to inhabitants of the town. The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has responsibility for dealing with these issues, but the Office of Public Works is happy to assist the Department with a view to seeing them resolved.

The Office of Public Works expects to invite tenders for the Flood Relief Scheme within the next week.