Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 147: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will investigate, through the Office of Public works, the risk of flooding to residents at Frederick Street, Clara, County Offaly, whose houses are in close proximity to the River Brosna; if, in conjunction with other State agencies, an emergency flood alert telephone number will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19652/09]

Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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The River Brosna at Clara forms part of the Brosna Catchment Drainage Scheme, which is maintained by the Office of Public Works under the Arterial Drainage Act 1945. The OPW monitor the condition of the channel, and maintenance work is carried out as required. The OPW is not aware of flooding at the location referred to that was caused by this channel.

The OPW understands that there was a recent incident of pluvial flooding, due to failure of the surface water system. Responding to such incidents and addressing the cause would primarily be a matter for the local authority. However, if details of the problem are provided, the OPW will consult with Offaly County Council with a view to having the matter investigated further.

OPW, in conjunction with local authorities and other State bodies, is currently undertaking a programme of catchment flood risk assessment and management studies that will, by 2015, identify areas of the country at risk from flooding and will, where the risk is significant, set out mitigating measures, including flood warning systems where appropriate. Emergency response would be a matter for the local authority.