It will be eight years this Christmas since Crossmolina had its devastating flooding. The residents still do not know the status or the timeline of their flood relief scheme. This uncertainty is causing a great deal of distress. The unfortunate delay surrounding this project is causing immense frustration and anxiety to the Crossmolina community. Consultants retained by the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery, and Reform have recommended seeking supplementary information from the Commissioners of Public Works to fully assess the environmental impacts. This could lead, however, to further delays for public consultation depending on the nature of the supplementary information. While we understand public input is vital, it is equally important this project safeguards the well-being of the Crossmolina community. I ask that the Taoiseach work with the Office of Public Works, OPW, and the Department to ensure this project is delivered with the utmost urgency.

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue with me, which he has done on a number of occasions before. Much of the delay that has been caused is due to the requirement we have to publicly consult on the impact a scheme like this can have on the environment. I very much appreciate the importance of this issue, and that has just been highlighted to all of us as we see the dreadful flood damage that has been caused in Midleton and elsewhere. I will certainly be looking at this and other schemes to see how we can move them forward in light of the flooding we have seen. I will come back to the Deputy on it.