Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 145: To ask the Minister for Finance the position regarding the finalisation of the draft Lee catchment flood risk assessment and management study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38038/10]

Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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At the beginning of February, 2010, I launched the draft River Lee catchment flood risk assessment and management study, (CFRAM) as the primary pilot project for the national CFRAM programme. This commenced a period of public consultation which extended to 30 April, 2010. At present, the recommendations set out in the draft are being re-assessed in the light of the feedbacks and submissions received during the consultation period. It is expected that the finalised version of the Catchment Flood Risk Management Plan will be completed and published in early 2011.

The Plan will set out clearly a proposed phasing framework for the Lee catchment. In this context, consultants are being commissioned to examine and develop the technical aspects of the Plan in detail, and undertake the design of the structural flood-defence components of a flood risk management scheme for Cork City. The first stage of the procurement for this work commenced in September, and consultants are scheduled to be appointed early in 2011.

At this early stage, OPW anticipates that non-structural options, are likely to be the first to be taken forward, followed by structural options over a longer timescale. All structural options will have a lead-in time for full scheme development and detailed design. However, if interim works are identified during the design process these can be progressed in partnership with the Local Authorities.

In addition, a number of priority actions are being undertaken, including detailed topographical and structural surveys of the existing defences within, and upstream of, Cork City in order to identify requirements for additional defences. OPW have agreed also to put Cork City Council in funds to carry out urgent repairs to the quay walls.