Written answers

Wednesday, 28 April 2010

Photo of Jim O'KeeffeJim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 84: To ask the Minister for Finance when the next phase of funding will be made available by the Office of Public Works to local authorities in 2010 for minor works and studies to address localised flood and coastal erosion problems; the amount of funding that will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17099/10]

Photo of Martin ManserghMartin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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I announced in March of this year details of the first phase of funding being made available by the OPW to Local Authorities in 2010 for minor works and studies to address localised flood and coastal erosion problems. OPW had initially allocated the sum of €6m for the Minor Works and Coastal Protection Programmes. However, based on assessments completed by OPW of applications received from Local Authorities to date, the sum of €6.7m has already been allocated. The sum of €5.43m was allocated to 12 Local Authorities for measures to address localised flooding problems in 52 inland areas. In addition, allocations totalling €1.27m were made to 6 Local Authorities for minor coastal flooding and erosion measures at 8 locations around the country. These allocations will allow the Local Authorities to proceed with these measures now to reduce the level of risk in the communities involved.

The application assessment process is continuing, and OPW are liaising with a number of Local Authorities regarding applications in respect of which additional information is required. Given the level of applications received, OPW are reviewing the funding available to meet demand, and it is open to Local Authorities to submit further applications under this scheme during 2010. All applications that met the relevant eligibility criteria will be considered, having regard to the overall resources available. OPW expect to be in a position to announce details of the availability of further funding in May. The Minor Flood Relief and Coastal Protection Programme introduced last year is an important element in the OPW's strategy for reducing and mitigating flood risks throughout the country.

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