James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 81: To ask the Minister for Finance his plans to address the four impediments (details supplied) in the Camlin and Shannon Rivers which cause severe flooding in the Longford and Clondra areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18100/11]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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The position as stated in my reply to the Deputy of 18th May, 2011 remains the same, the Office of Public Works has no responsibility with regard to the specific issues raised.

However, during my visit to Longford on 26th May, 2011, I visited the site of the unfinished scheme at Tarmonbarry and met with a delegation in the matter. On foot of the concerns expressed, I have arranged for my officials to engage with Waterways Ireland regarding the unfinished scheme to ascertain if the matter can be progressed. With regard to the issue of the New Lock gates at Clondra, in order to be of assistance my officials will contact the person concerned to obtain further information.

As indicated in my previous reply the Office of Public Works is currently involved in a number of initiatives to alleviate the flooding risk in the catchment concerned. The primary initiative in this regard is the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Study for the River Shannon, which commenced earlier this year. This study will identify and examine in detail the causes of flooding throughout the Shannon catchment, and produce an integrated plan of specific measures to address the significant flood risk factors in a proactive and comprehensive way.