Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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573. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding Kenmare flood relief scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20376/21]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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Kerry County Council issued a request for tenders for engineering design consultants and environmental consultants, from the Office of Public Works’ framework of consultants, in October 2020. Three tender submissions were received and these submissions are currently being evaluated. The appointed consultant will be tasked with identifying and designing a flood relief scheme to alleviate the risk of flooding to Kenmare to a determined standard of protection and to procure, manage and oversee the construction of the scheme.

In advance of the full Kenmare Flood Relief Scheme, interim works were carried out. These works involved the clearance of vegetation (primarily overhanging tree branches) and debris along a stretch of the Keelnagower river as they posed an immediate risk in a flood event leading to blockages in bridges as was seen in the recent flooding event in Kenmare, where a number of properties were flooded. The clearance of this vegetation will allow for various surveys to take place (site investigations, environmental baseline). All Environmental Screening was carried out to ensure that there would be no adverse environmental effects and the appropriate state agencies were consulted with.

Consultants have been appointed to carry out a Coastal Wave and Water Level Study which will allow for the analysis of wave-overtopping and will form part of the overall scheme for Kenmare.