Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Office of Public Works is the lead agency for flood risk management in Ireland and is responsible for the development and implementation of flood risk policies and strategies. 

 The OPW, in partnership with Galway City Council, are currently progressing the development of a flood relief scheme for Galway City ‘Corrib go Cósta’ and following a tender process, consultants were appointed in November, 2020.  Public and stakeholder engagement are key components of the overall communications strategy that has been developed for the scheme, which details proactive engagement with all key stakeholders with interest in Galway City and the Flood Relief Scheme. This engagement with significant stakeholders has commenced in addition to the first public engagement day which took place in June 2021.  

 The Galway Flood Relief Scheme, while primarily focused on addressing the sustainable and effective management of flood risk, shall also ensure that the design of any measures, in particular structural measures, takes cognisance of the sensitivity of the distinctive context of the city and a wide range of issues such as cultural heritage, biodiversity and public realm. This will involve significant engagement and collaboration with various stakeholders and will be an ongoing process throughout the development of the scheme.   

The OPW would be happy to engage as appropriate with stakeholders with respect of the management of other elements of Galway City's waterways.