71. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to provide an update on flood prevention measures being undertaken in Rathcormac, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5074/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

I wish both the Minister and the Minister of State well in their roles. I look forward to working closely with them. Could I get an update on flood prevention measures being undertaken in Rathcormac, County Cork, and if he will make a statement on the matter?

Sentiment score: 0.20

I thank the Minister of State for his response and for the update. I commend the officials in the OPW and Cork County Council, and the previous Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Deputy Kieran O'Donnell, on the work done to date, and the establishment of the individual property protection scheme for east Cork. While I acknowledge that areas such as Midleton, Castlemartyr, Mogeely and Killeagh were devastated by the flooding caused by Storm Babet in October 2023, I must highlight the plight of Rathcormac, which has long been identified as a flood risk. This, unfortunately, came to pass following Storm Babet, with many properties devastated by flooding. This is something that will forever be remembered in the community. I have no doubt that those who were impacted will continue to be fearful of a repeat whenever the area is subject to prolonged rainfall. I acknowledge that Rathcormac is included in tranche 2 of the CFRAM programme, but is there a possibility of it being prioritised for works and included under tranche 1 of the programme?

Sentiment score: -0.19

I again thank the Minister of State for his response. I previously mentioned his predecessor and the good work he did within the Department. When he visited areas in east Cork last year, unfortunately, he did not get the opportunity to visit Rathcormac. Following the Minister of State's response, I would appreciate it if he could get an opportunity to visit. The people of Rathcormac would be very grateful for that. His visit would reassure them that work will be done in the near future. I thank him very much for his response. It is very positive that he will visit as soon as possible.

Sentiment score: 0.34