Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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98. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the progress of the Enniscorthy flood defence scheme; if he will confirm whether the project will proceed with the construction of the new bridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56108/22]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Enniscorthy (River Slaney) flood relief scheme is being progressed by Wexford County Council, on behalf of the Office of Public Works, under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945, as amended. On completion, the scheme will protect 326 properties in the town.

A proposed scheme including river channel widening, river deepening, bridge relocation, and the construction of extensive glass panelled flood walls through the town was submitted to the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform for confirmation, under the Act in April 2020. In March 2022 The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath TD, made a decision to refuse this Scheme under Section 7E(1)(b) of the Arterial Drainage Acts.

Since then Wexford County Council, as contracting authority has engaged consultants to review alternative options for a flood relief scheme for Enniscorthy, that has a long history of flooding. This will require some additional modelling and consideration of alternative options such as nature based solutions, as part of a viable scheme. The associated extensive and detailed engineering and environmental studies and assessments required as part of this process are expected to identify an alternative scheme in the second part of 2023.

Legal advice was sought and has recently been received by my officials in relation to progressing construction of a new bridge for the town, ahead of works for a flood relief scheme, so that both the scheme and the bridge can be integrated and delivered in a timely manner. This legal advice is currently being reviewed.