Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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It is a matter for Kerry County Council in the first instance to assess the risks in specific coastal areas and the level of coastal protection required in those areas.

The Local Authorities may carry out coastal protection works using their own resources. If necessary, they may also put forward proposals to the relevant central Government Departments for funding of appropriate measures depending on the infrastructure or assets under threat.

The Office of Public Works Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme considers applications for funding from local authorities for measures costing up to €750,000 in each instance. Funding for coastal erosion risk management studies may also be applied for under this scheme. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for projects which meet the eligibility criteria including a requirement that the proposed measures are cost beneficial. The OPW has published guidelines for coastal erosion risk management measures and funding applications under the Minor Works Scheme, available on the OPW website.

Any applications received will be considered in accordance with the overall availability of resources for flood risk management and the scheme's eligibility criteria available on the OPW website.

Castletown Bearhaven was identified as an Area for Further Assessment (AFA) in the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Study for the South Western River Basin District and a proposed measure for the AFA of Castletown Bearhaven has been identified in the Flood Risk Management Plan due to be completed shortly.