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For Oral Answer on : 02/05/2024
Question Number(s): 91 Question Reference(s): 19865/24
Department: Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform
Asked by: David Stanton T.D.
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QUESTION
* To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure; National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to list all interim flood prevention measures currently being proposed across the east Cork area; the status of the progression and proposed timescales for the completion of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
– David Stanton T.D.
REPLY
I am aware of the devastating impact flooding has had to home owners, businesses and communities in Midelton and East Cork during Storm Babet.
The 2018 Flood Risk Management Plans provided the evidence for a proactive approach to designing and constructing 150 additional flood relief schemes for the most at-risk communities funded by €1.3bn from the National Development Plan. Since then the OPW has trebled the number of schemes at design and construction to some 100, including Midleton.
Pending the completion of this flood relief schemes local authorities can introduce flood mitigation measures funded under the OPW’s Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme. This provides 90% of the cost of localised flood mitigation measures up to a value of €750,000. Following Storm Babet, Cork County Council progressed with a number of interim flood defence measures for Midleton, including channel clearance works and are assessing further channel works and replacement of non-return valves this summer. The Council is also continuing engagement with landowners in relation to removal of some bridges. Cork County Council is finalising a plan for targeted Individual Property Protection to at-risk properties in Midleton. These measures are being funded through the OPW.
Cork County Council with their consultants and Met Eireann, have assessed the feasibility of a flood forecasting system for Midleton. Unfortunately, due to the short time period between rain falling in the area and flooding occurring in the town, a flood forecasting system based on rainfall and real time river gauge observations will not provide a sufficient lead time to allow for an effective response. The National Flood Forecasting Service, operated by Met Eireann, provides data on flood risk for major catchments and is developing its service to improve flood forecasting for Midleton and other areas throughout the country.
The Steering Group for the Midelton Flood Relief Scheme meets quarterly with the Midleton Flood Committee with representatives from locally elected representatives, business community and the wider community. This engagement meeting occurs on a quarterly basis. An update on interim measures was discussed at this forum on 25th April and a further meeting is scheduled for 11 July.
