Following yesterday's severe flooding in Midleton, Youghal and Waterford, it feels like Groundhog Day as I once again refer to the Enniscorthy flood defence scheme on the River Slaney. The scheme was rejected by the Minister for Finance but a partial phase was accepted and approved as a separate preliminary scheme, which consists of building a new bridge. This new bridge is essential to the development of the town and would relieve most of the flooding of Enniscorthy, which is mainly caused by the low elevation of the existing Seamus Rafter Bridge. Enniscorthy has suffered serious flooding many times, with an emerging pattern of flooding occurring almost every second year. It will more than likely happen again this winter. When will the people of Enniscorthy see construction of the new bridge start? Will the Tánaiste seek an answer on their behalf from the OPW?

I would have thought that answer was readily available. If the Deputy is saying the project is accepted, it probably is going ahead. A total of 95 projects are under way at the moment between design and construction. The various flood relief schemes are at different stages, with some in planning, some in design and some under construction. A total of 53 have been completed and there is approximately €1.3 billion for this purpose in the national development plan. However, I will check the matter out for the Deputy.