Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 186: To ask the Minister for Finance if the flood relief scheme for Clonmel, County Tipperary, will be expedited to prevent the flooding problems that have been experienced there in January 2009 with frequent flooding, damage and disturbance caused; if this situation will be alleviated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4227/09]

Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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The Commissioners of Public Works decided last year, in the light of the increased budgetary provision for Flood Risk Management Measures to amalgamate phases 2 and 3 of the River Suir [Clonmel] Flood Relief Scheme in order to expedite the completion of the overall scheme. Phase 1 of the scheme is already well advanced.

The Steering Committee, which is overseeing the implementation of the scheme agreed at its meeting in January to examine the feasibility of bringing forward the construction of the Quay wall element of the scheme. That and the feasibility of expediting the design of the entire scheme are being examined.

I visited Clonmel on Saturday and saw for myself the devastation caused by the flooding in the town. I fully understand the anxiety of people who are at risk from what has become very frequent flooding and sympathise with those who have suffered loss or damage or been subjected to the trauma that flooding causes. I am committed to ensuring the Flood Relief Scheme is completed as quickly as possible.