Flood Relief Scheme and supports must be fast tracked – O’Donovan

Immediate acceleration of the Bantry flood relief scheme must begin now, a Fine Gael General Election Candidate has said, following another devastating flood.

Cllr Noel O’Donovan said: “This weekend I walked through Bantry and saw the devastation first hand which hit several businesses. Speaking to business owners, I could feel their frustration and anger.

“These people are trying to run their businesses, to provide for their families, and to contribute to the local community.

“They shouldn’t have to spend their weekends cleaning up flood damage. We owe it to them to get this scheme in place and ensure they can thrive, not just survive.

“Bantry is a town with incredible potential, but it will never reach that potential if businesses are constantly dealing with flood damage and worrying about when the next one will hit.

“I’m working closely with the Taoiseach, Minister Peter Burke, and Minister Kieran O’Donnell to provide multifaceted support to the people of Bantry.

“Cork County Council, working with the Office of Public Works is continuing to assess solutions for both tidal and river flooding in Bantry. It’s time to put an end to the uncertainty that’s plagued this great west Cork town for years.

“Minister O’Donnell, who visited Bantry this weekend has arranged a meeting this coming Wednesday with Cork County Council, the Office of Public Works, Uisce Éireann, and the consultants on the culvert scheme to explore ways it can be expedited.

“Our local businesses have faced setback after setback, and they need more than just sandbags—they need proper, long-term protection.

“The Minister has also advised me that the Office of Public Works has approved funding to Cork County Council for an individual property protection scheme for business owners and homeowners in Bantry, which the Council will roll out shortly.

“While the main flood relief scheme will take some time, the Minister’s absolute priority is to move the culvert flood relief scheme forward as quickly as possible to bring some relief to the people of Bantry.

“Bantry’s business owners are resilient, but they need support now. Government will provide financial and practical supports to help them recover, but these must be delivered in the time that they are needed most.” Cllr. O’Donovan concluded.