Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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41. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if funding will be made available for the Blackpool flood relief scheme in view of the fact that the work required is outstanding for a number of years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24372/20]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Blackpool Flood Relief Scheme commenced in 2013 when the Office of Public Works, in conjunction with Cork City Council, appointed consultants to develop proposals to deal with the flood risk that existed in Cork City. The scheme was originally part of the Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme.  As it became clear, however, that a solution could be advanced for Blackpool ahead of the Lower Lee, a separate scheme was developed for Blackpool. Following extensive engineering and environmental analysis, public consultation, and a formal Public Exhibition, the proposed scheme was submitted to the Department for Public Expenditure and Reform for Ministerial Confirmation.

The Scheme is currently undergoing assessment by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform as part of the Confirmation process under the Arterial Drainage Acts.  Further information has been requested by the Minister as part of the environmental impact assessment which he is carrying out on the scheme.  This information is currently being prepared and is expected to be provided to the Minister in the next few weeks.  

The estimated Total Project Cost of the scheme is €20.5m, based on current design, but is subject to change following the completion of the detailed design and tender process. Once the scheme is Confirmed, the detailed design will be completed and a tender competition held to appoint a works contractor.  It is currently anticipated that construction will commence on the scheme by mid 2021.