River drainage schemes to be ‘considered’

A drainage scheme for two sections of river between Craughwell and Ardrahan and Craughwell and Kilcolgan will be “considered” towards the end of the year, it has emerged.
Galway East Fianna Fáil TD Michael Kitt recently questioned the Minister for Finance about progress on the drainage scheme for the Dunkellin River.
Deputy Kitt asked Minister Michael Noonan to outline the cost of the draining works, the stages involved and when the work will commence.
However, in response to Deputy Kitt’s question, the minister said the scheme is likely to be considered towards the end of this year and that progression will depend on a number of matters including the Government’s review of Capital expenditure.
“The minister has confirmed to me that Galway County Council is undertaking a flood-relief scheme for the Dunkellin River from Craughwell to Kilcolgan and the Aggard Stream with funding from the Office of Public Works. The council has appointed consultants to carry out an Environmental Impact Statement of the proposed works and to complete the detailed design of the scheme to submit to An Bord Pleanála,” Deputy Kitt said.
“The council is progressing the scheme through An Bord Pleanála under the Strategic Infrastructure Act,” said Minister Noonan.
“OPW understands that An Bord Pleanála will formally consider the scheme on completion of the EIS, which the council expects towards the end of 2011. Pending the completion of the scheme design and the decision of An Bord Pleanála, it is not possible to confirm the cost of the scheme or when works can be commenced. Progression of the scheme will also have to have regard to the Government’s review of capital expenditure,” the minister continued.
Deputy Kitt paid tribute to Galway County Council, who he said “have been tackling flooding of the Dunkellin River over several months. These drainage works are badly needed for safety and environmental reasons. I am calling on the minister to ensure that the funding continues to be provided to this important project.”