228. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position in relation to a flood alleviation project (details supplied) in County Clare; the date on which it is expected that work will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18917/14]

Clare County Council is undertaking the Ennis South flood alleviation project covering the St. Flannan's College and Ballybeg areas in Ennis with funding being provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW). As indicated in reply to the Deputy's Question on 4th February, 2014, the OPW raised certain issues in relation to aspects of the initial cost benefit analysis report for the scheme prepared by the Council. An amended cost/benefit report has recently been submitted to the OPW by the Council and it is currently being reviewed.

If the OPW is satisfied that the amended report demonstrates the economic viability of the scheme, Clare County Council has indicated it would be in a position to commence the procurement process for the works contractor within a short time-frame. The OPW has made provision for the scheme in its multi-annual budget profiles.