Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

321. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a river will be dredged or if flood relief works will be considered at a location (details supplied) in County Tipperary, in order to alleviate the flood risk to the surrounding property and lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55458/22]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Local flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each Local Authority to investigate and address. Local Authorities may carry out flood mitigation works, using either their own resources, or by applying for funding under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.

Under this scheme, applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for approved projects. Applications are assessed by the OPW having regard to the specific economic, social and environmental criteria of the scheme, including a benefit to cost ratio and having regard to the availability of funding for flood risk management. Full details of this scheme are available on www.gov.ie/opw.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the maintenance of arterial drainage schemes completed under the Arterial Drainage Acts, 1945 and 1995, as amended. The location detailed is not part of an arterial drainage scheme.

Riparian owners of land also have an important role in ensuring that watercourses are managed and free flowing so that in extreme weather events the risk of flooding can be minimised. A guide to the rights and responsibilities of landowners is available online at www.flooding.ie.