Funding of €2,613,504 toward interim flooding measures for Wexford – Senator Cathal Byrne

I welcome the announcement by Minister Moran today for funding of €2,613,504 towards interim flood management measures for Co. Wexford.

“This funding is very welcome and I am delighted that Minister Moran has recognised the very genuine need to look after the town and people of Enniscorthy, as well as Bunclody and Bridgetown.  I have been in regular contact with Minister Moran to ensure that this funding would be made available and that the necessary interim measures could be commenced.

Todays announcement of €2,613,504 will see an aqua dam purchased for use on Shannon Quay and an earth bank will be constructed around The Waterfront Pool & Leisure Centre.  The wall on Abbey Quay will be raised by approximately 300mm with demountable barriers installed at the pedestrian gaps; there will be also be pump sumps (designed to collect unwanted groundwater, seepage, or rainwater) on both Abbey Quay and Shannon Quay. The Promenade will be protected with an aqua dam and an earth bank

Wexford County Council will also examine the possibility of erecting electronic information signs on the Quay with real-time updates on the status of the River Slaney.

In addition to Enniscorthy, there will be interim measures provided for both Bunclody and Bridgetown with a temporary earth bund (a compacted bank of soil) being assessed for Ryland Road and additional bunds and pump sumps scheduled for Bridgetown.

Today’s announcement is very welcome and it will be important to get the works on these measures started quickly.  However, for me, the key priority remains the permanent Flood Defence Scheme and associated works for Enniscorthy.  It is a vital infrastructure project for the town of Enniscorthy and we must continue to put pressure on at every level to ensure it progresses in a timely manner.”

ENDS