Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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73. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the OPW will carry out certain works (details supplied) arising from damage caused as a result of the serious flooding event in the Cooley peninsula in late October 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38571/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Ireland has recently experienced several severe weather events which have caused significant damage to the regional and local road network. Prompt restoration of our roads and bridges is essential to maintain social/economic connectivity as well as enabling safer journeys. 

It is important to highlight, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants.

Every year the Department of Transport emphasises to all local authorities the importance of setting aside a contingency fund to manage events such as severe flooding. Where practical, the Department also works with local authorities to reprioritise grant funding following such incidences as severe weather events.

Due to the impacts of the wet winter season, Louth County Council sought additional financial support to assist in carrying out its duty as the Road Authority. My Department has committed €1m to the Council in 2024 for the managing of essential repair works, especially of key roads and bridges, as well as investing in future proofing of the network. 

On 31st May 2024, I announced additional funding of €30 million to local authorities through Restoration Improvement (RI) Grants following persistent rainfall over winter and spring with Louth receiving €472,000 in additional funding.