Written answers

Tuesday, 11 March 2014

Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

Flood Prevention Measures

Photo of Brendan GriffinBrendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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198. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the reinstatement of the Maine bank at Ardcanaught, Castlemaine, County Kerry; when the Office of Public Works anticipates being in a position to resume works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12146/14]

Photo of Brian HayesBrian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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There are 230kms of river channels, 96kms of flood defences, 180 sluice structures and 222 bridge structures on the River Maine. Significant damage to OPW assets on the River Maine catchment occurred during the recent storms. The OPW is currently in the process of rectifying these issues, but it is difficult to provide a time-line on when exactly specific areas of damage will be addressed due to many of the sites being inaccessible at this time and the solutions complicated. The works at these sites require planning and preparation and must take into account environmental considerations and other factors. However, I am advised that any major blockages within the system have been addressed to date and the OPW is continuing to deal with the issues as quickly as possible with the resources available.

Staff from the OPW's South West Region Arterial Drainage Maintenance Division are currently working at Laghtacallow, where they are building haul roads allowing for access to import subsoil and rock armor to repair the affected defences at this location. There are approximately 1.5 km of defences here requiring some form of attention. It is hoped that works at Ardcanaght can commence by late April or early May.

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