What is going to be done to speed up the delivery of the Midleton flood relief scheme? We have heard in recent weeks that people may have to wait until 2026 for a planning application to be lodged. I want to state how completely unacceptable this is in the aftermath of one of the greatest natural disasters to ever hit County Cork with more than 600 homes and businesses in Midleton alone flooded. Will the Government look at using the Arterial Drainage Act and increase the speed with which that will be delivered to get this project moving urgently to prevent further flooding in the Midleton area and other parts of east Cork where projects are required?

I thank Deputy O'Connor for raising this important matter relating to the Midleton flood relief scheme. The Government will certainly look at every avenue we can to deliver for the protection of the people of Midleton as quickly as possible. I know the level of fear and worry households, businesses and community groups have with regard to the threat of flooding. We have seen an increased frequency of that in recent years so we are very committed to the flood relief scheme for Midleton and I will get the Deputy an update regarding all the various avenues that can be explored.