Funding for Waterford City and County Council to begin work on Interim Flood Relief Measures announced

Minister of State John Cummins has today welcomed the funding announced for Waterford City and County Council to progress work to get interim flood relief measures in place in Passage East and Tallow, as well as approval for a flood study in Colligan and approval for a flood wall at Duckspool, Dungarvan.

The funding of €141,525 will support the local authority to carry out the assessments required on the properties and businesses to provide protection barriers in Passage and Tallow.

Minister Cummins met with Minister for the OPW Kevin Boxer Moran who has given a commitment that further funding will come for 42 households and one business in Tallow for flood protection barriers, while Passage East will see flood protection barriers to 58 householders and two businesses.

Importantly, Minister Cummins also welcomed confirmation from Minister Moran that the long-sought flood protection wall at Duckspool will be funded as part of the broader plan to strengthen flood defences in the area.

Minister Cummins said: “I very much welcome the positive engagement today with Minister Kevin Boxer Moran and his officials, and I appreciate the commitment that has now been made to support Waterford city and county council in funding flood gates for houses and businesses in Passage East and Tallow.

“Since the recent flooding events, I have repeatedly raised the urgent need for action and highlighted the devastating impact these events had on local homes, families and businesses.

“Having seen first-hand the damage and distress caused, it was clear to Minister Moran that immediate interim measures were needed, while a longer term solution is progressed. I am pleased Minister Moran has agreed with that approach.

“The commitment to fund Waterford City and County Council so that practical works can now begin, including flood gates and other measures, is an important first step.

“Separately, there is now also a clear commitment to fund the sea wall at Duckspool, which will provide long-term protection for the area. This is a project I have sought to progress over several years.

“The focus now must be on continued engagement between the local authority and the OPW to ensure these works are progressed and accelerated as quickly as possible. Communities affected by flooding need to see delivery on the ground without delay,” the Waterford Fine Gael TD added.

Minister Cummins said he will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure progress is made and that affected residents and businesses receive the protection they need as quickly as possible. The onus will now be on Waterford City and County Council to progress these interim measures, as well as bringing forward plans for a more permanent solution.