18. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide funding to tackle costal erosion and flooding in Rossbeigh, Waterville, Kenmare, Tralee, Listowel, Glenbeigh, Dooks, Cromane Lower, Killorglin and Glosha; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39792/25]

Sentiment score: -0.09

I raise the issue of coastal erosion and flooding, which are huge problems in my neck of the woods. I live by a beach called Rossbeigh in Glenbeigh, County Kerry. It is on Castlemaine Harbour. That area in particular is very problematic with global warming and high tides. When the high tides coincide with storms there are particular issues. Homes are flooded and we require funding as soon as possible.

Sentiment score: -0.08

I thank the Minister of State for that response. The towns of Kenmare, Tralee, Listowel, Castleisland and lower Killorglin all need protection works at the earliest possible date. I have been inside homes where there has been 3 ft of saltwater. Rainwater is one problem, but saltwater is a different story completely. I plead with the Minister of State to come down, see for himself and provide the necessary funding. Historically, coastal erosion and flooding were at the bottom of the priority list when it came to funding. It is about time they were addressed. Other areas in Kerry also need coastal protection works, for example, Waterville and my local beach in Rossbeigh. Cromane is a particular problem. People there are living in fear any time a high tide and a storm coincide. They cannot sleep in their beds. This is happening too often. We are seeing more and more issues all the time. I would be delighted to welcome the Minister of State to Kerry and show him these particular areas. I have no doubt he will deliver for the people.

Sentiment score: -0.06

I thank the Minister of State for confirming he is coming down to Kerry. I look forward to welcoming him. There are so many areas. It is a huge problem that involves expensive work. Rock armour is very expensive, as are other lines of defence. For many of the people affected, the Minister of State is General Custer making his last stand. We are pleading with him to deliver for our county and people and to give them some sort of comfort. I am getting calls all the time. Any time a storm is forecast it is particularly worrying for young families. Their homes have been ruined before. I have seen this first hand. It is not a pleasant experience. As the Minister of State knows, it creates other problems in the context of insurance, etc. It is hugely important that we get funding. There is other areas too, including Callanafersy, Castlemaine, Keel and Inch. The area around Castlemaine Harbour is a particular issue for us. The pilot study is long completed and it went on long enough. The Covid pandemic threw it back. I am looking forward to the Minister of State coming to Kerry.

Sentiment score: 0.01