Discussions continue over flood relief measures after storm ‘devastation’ in Carlow
Carlow-Kilkenny TD Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere requested an update on measures proposed in the aftermath of Storm Chandra
Discussions are continuing over potential flood relief measures being implemented in County Carlow following the “devastation” caused by Storm Chandra.
Minister of State Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran provided an update on planned flood relief schemes in response to a parliamentary question submitted by Carlow-Kilkenny TD Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere.
Deputy Cleere asked for a progress report on Office of Public Works (OPW) projects in Kilkenny and Carlow, as well as an update on potential flood relief schemes.
In his response, Minister Moran outlined one flood relief scheme that has already been introduced, as well as those in the pipeline.
“The €9.5m Carlow Flood Relief Scheme is completed and provides protection for 185 properties.
“The OPW and Carlow County Council are currently in discussion to progress the development of a further flood relief scheme for Carlow to augment the existing scheme to protect a further 35 properties.
“A Scheme Climate Change Adaptation Plan (SCCAP) is being developed for the existing Carlow Flood Relief Scheme.
“This will ensure that the scheme is readily adaptable to future requirements. This work is expected to be completed before the end of 2027.”
He went on to recognise the impact caused by Storm Chandra in the county and outlined his visit to the constituency.
“Storm Chandra on January 27 and in the days immediately after, caused flooding to many towns, businesses and homes, particularly along the East and South East coast of Ireland.
“I saw first-hand the devastation that this event caused when I visited the locations, including in counties Carlow and Kilkenny impacted by this flood event.
“During those visits, I asked those local authorities that were impacted to set out those interim measures that could be introduced over the coming months and that can significantly reduce the impact to those communities impacted by Strom Chandra from a future equivalent flood event.”
Minister Moran concluded by saying that after meeting with the Carlow and Kilkenny County Councils, the two local authorities have applied for funding for interim measures.
He added that these business cases are now under review by his Department and that he hopes to get back to the councils shortly.