Funding Promised To Tackle Galway Flooding

Fianna Fáil TD Noel Treacy has confirmed funding has been allocated for flood relief works in East Galway.

The Minister with Responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), Dr Martin Mansergh TD, confirmed the funds for allocation yesterday, after Galway was badly hit by the freak cold snap earlier this week.

Deputy Treacy said: “Dr Martin Mansergh, the Minister with responsibility for the OPW, informed me today that funding allocated under a minor works scheme is significantly increased since last year. Last year some €2.1 million was allocated, in comparison to €6.7 million for this year.”

However a Galway West TD has lashed out at the allocated funds, saying they showed a lack of urgency in relation to the flooding risk along the Clare River.

Deputy Frank Fahey said he was outraged the river was not included in the recent roll-out of flooding for flood relief.

He said work on the Clare River needs to be fast tracked in order prevent another flooding crisis.

He's also threatening to name and shame insurance companies who've been inefficient or have failed to honour policies with flood victims.

In East Galway the allocations announced so far included Ahascragh Channel cleaning, which has been ear marked for €45,000, Ballyglunin Chanel is to be widened to the tune of €60,000, while in Newtown, Abbeyknockmoy Improvements to the piped drainage system will cost €250,000.

There are no listed allocations for Clare River.

This morning Noel Treacy said: “The application assessment process is still ongoing and local authorities may make further applications under the scheme during the year. All applications that meet the criteria will be considered in regard to the overall resources remaining."

(DW/GK)