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Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), Kieran O’Donnell, T.D., has announced the approval of Cork County Council’s application for funding under the OPW’s Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme. The funding of €162,900 will support remedial works to the existing sea wall at Cape Clear, County Cork.

The Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, established by the OPW in 2009, aims to assist Local Authorities in addressing localised flooding and coastal protection challenges within their jurisdictions. Since its inception, Cork County Council has had 57 applications supported under the scheme.

Purpose and Scope of the Scheme

The scheme provides funding for projects that can be completed within a short time frame and are estimated to cost no more than €750,000. Approved projects can receive funding of up to 90% of their total cost. Applications are assessed based on specific economic, social, and environmental criteria, including a cost-benefit analysis.

Minister O’Donnell highlighted the significance of this initiative in supporting local communities:

“This funding is an essential step in safeguarding communities from the increasing challenges posed by flooding and coastal erosion. It demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting local authorities in implementing practical and timely solutions.”

While the scheme primarily supports works not typically the responsibility of local authorities, it may offer partial funding for projects mitigating flood risks to properties. However, local authorities must ensure that proposed works do not increase flood risks elsewhere.

Next Steps for Cork County Council

The commencement and progression of the Cape Clear works now rest with Cork County Council, which will oversee the project’s implementation.

Further information about the scheme, including annual lists of approved projects, can be found on the OPW’s flood information website: floodinfo.ie.