Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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Coastal protection and localised flooding issues are matters, in the first instance, for each local authority to investigate and address. To assist Local Authorities in managing the coastline for coastal erosion, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has undertaken a national assessment of coastal erosion (including erosion rates) under the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS) and the results of this study have been published on the OPW website. This data enables Local Authorities to develop appropriate plans and strategies for the sustainable management of the coastline in their counties.

The Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme was introduced by the OPW on an administrative, non-statutory basis in 2009. The purpose of the scheme is to provide funding to local authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas.

Funding was sought and allocated to Sligo County Council under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme for a Coastal Erosion and Flood Risk Management Study for Strandhill Bay in April 2021, with additional funding allocated in 2022 following a further request. In November 2022, Sligo County Council drew down funding of some €71,000 following submission of the draft report. An updated draft final report was submitted to the OPW in May 2023.

The study was commissioned by Sligo County Council and the timing and publication of the report is a matter for the Council.