Written Answers Nos. 439-458
439. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the protections available to franchisees or workers of a company (details supplied) who make protected disclosures regarding corporate governance, employment status, or misconduct. [10232/26]
View answerWorkers who are considering making a protected disclosure are encouraged, at the outset, to seek independent advice on the protections available to them. In this regard, Transparency International Ireland’s Speak Up Helpline and Legal Advice Centre provides free, independent and impartial advice to any worker who wishes to make a protected disclosure under Irish law.
The legislative framework governing protected disclosures is set out in the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, as amended by the Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022, which significantly strengthened Ireland’s whistleblowing regime and transposed the EU 'Whistleblowing Directive' 2019/1937.
The Act provides a broad definition of 'worker', encompassing employees, self-employed persons, contractors, agency workers, trainees, shareholders, members of administrative, management or supervisory bodies, and persons working under the supervision or direction of contractors or subcontractors. Where a franchisee, or a person working within a franchised operation, falls within this definition, they may avail of the protections of the Act.
The Act requires all employers with 50 or more employees to establish internal reporting channels and procedures for the making and handling of protected disclosures. These channels must ensure confidentiality, provide acknowledgement and feedback within statutory timeframes, and protect the identity of the reporting person, subject to limited exceptions provided for in law.
The Act prohibits penalisation, or the threat of penalisation, of a worker for having made a protected disclosure. Penalisation is defined broadly and includes, among other matters:
• Unfair dismissal
• Unfair treatment, such as suspension, demotion, loss of pay, change of working hours, reassignment of duties, or disciplinary action
• Coercion, intimidation, or harassment
Statutory protection from penalisation is provided primarily through the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The WRC may order appropriate relief, including reinstatement or re-engagement, and the payment of compensation of up to five years’ remuneration. Decisions of the WRC may be appealed to the Labour Court. Alternatively, a worker may pursue a claim for damages through the courts, where no statutory cap on compensation applies.
The 2022 amendments also established the Office of the Protected Disclosures Commissioner (OPDC), which operates as an independent, central channel for the receipt and referral of protected disclosures where it is not appropriate to report directly to an employer or a prescribed body.
In addition, statutory guidance for both public and private sector employers and workers on the operation of the protected disclosures regime is published on my Department’s website and is kept under review.
It is not appropriate for me to comment on, or intervene in, individual cases. Investigation and adjudication of disclosures and any alleged penalisation are matters for the relevant employers, statutory bodies, the WRC, the Labour Court, or the courts, as provided for in legislation.
440. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation further to Parliamentary Question No. 319 of 15 January 2026, if he considers there to be an inconsistency between the idea that prescriptive approaches can disadvantage candidates, and that a requirement for fixed in-person interviews effectively excludes all overseas candidates unless they can travel at short notice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9194/26]
View answerMy Department is committed to ensuring that Civil Service recruitment is fair, accessible and proportionate, while allowing recruiters to design the processes to identify the best candidates for each role. Our approach supports consistent standards without imposing unnecessary prescriptive requirements.
Although hybrid interviewing has an important role in widening access, mandating its use in all circumstances removes the ability to determine where an in-person engagement is most appropriate, for example, where meeting a candidate face-to-face provides a fuller understanding of their skills, leadership style, or professional presence.
Recruiters should have an appropriate flexibility to choose the format most suitable for the role and candidate cohort, offering hybrid or remote options where helpful, while retaining the ability to request in-person attendance where this is justified, proportionate and clearly communicated. This flexibility must be within the requirements as set out in the Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act 2004 and the Commission for Public Service Appointment's Code of Practice for Appointment to Positions in the Civil Service and Public Service.
441. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the oversight mechanisms in place within his Department to ensure that public procurement processes are protected from bid-rigging and cartel behaviour; whether any red-flag or data-screening systems are used across State procurement frameworks; and if he will provide details of same. [9323/26]
View answer442. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether the Office of Government Procurement has issued guidance, training, or mandatory protocols to contracting authorities on identifying and responding to suspected cartel or collusive bidding behaviour; the date of the most recent guidance issued; and the level of compliance across Departments and State bodies. [9324/26]
View answer443. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether his Department maintains or has access to centralised data on bidding patterns for large State contracts across sectors; whether such data is analysed for indicators of anti-competitive behaviour; and if he will outline any plans to strengthen data-driven oversight in this area. [9325/26]
View answer444. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether his Department has considered the fiscal risk posed to the Exchequer by cartel activity and bid-rigging in public procurement; whether this risk is reflected in any expenditure control, value-for-money, or public spending review processes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9326/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 441, 442, 443 and 444 together.
As a division of my Department, the Policy, Service Delivery, eProcurement, Data, Analytics and Systems Division (OGP) is responsible for national public procurement policy, eProcurement, the national eTendering platform, service delivery, and data. The OGP engages on an ongoing basis with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC). The CCPC is the statutory body with responsibility for promoting compliance with, and enforcing, competition and consumer protection law in Ireland, including in relation to the detection and prevention of bid rigging.
At present, there is no formal automated mechanism in place to systematically identify or manage potential collusion between suppliers. In practice, buyers compare bids manually to identify any indications of collusive behaviour.
My Department assists buyers through the OGP’s Public Procurement Guidelines for Goods and Services, directing them to the CCPC Business Guide for Detecting Bid Rigging. Where a buyer suspects bid rigging or any form of collusive tendering, such behaviour constitutes a serious infringement of competition law. In these instances, buyers are advised to report findings promptly to the CCPC.
OGP has engaged directly with the CCPC with a view to enhancing awareness of the CCPC’s role in competition protection among public sector practitioners and businesses. The CCPC is represented on the SME Advisory Group, which is chaired by the Minister of State.
A joint project is planned between OGP and the CCPC to provide the CCPC with controlled access to eTenders procurement data. This will enable the CCPC to deploy specialised analytical tools capable of identifying patterns indicative of bid rigging or supplier collusion.
Planning for this project is ongoing, with particular focus on GDPR and data sharing considerations, which must be fully resolved before access and automated analysis can proceed.
445. Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation for an update on each ongoing, and proposed, flood relief scheme in County Donegal, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9394/26]
View answerIn 2018 the Flood Risk Management Plans identified some 150 flood relief schemes are required to manage the significant risk from flooding. Since then, the OPW has trebled, to some 100, the number of flood relief schemes at design and construction. These are in the first tranche of schemes and commencing work on the Tranche 2 schemes is constrained by the availability of specialised engineering skills for designing flood relief schemes.
Sixteen flood relief schemes were identified in County Donegal under the Flood Risk Management Plans announced in May 2018. Twelve of these projects are included in the first phase of implementation (i.e. Tranche 1) and details of these are set out under in tabular form. Killybegs, Carndonagh, Dunfanaghy, and Rathmullan are Tranche 2 schemes.
Nine of the current tranche of twelve projects are being delivered by Donegal County Council and the OPW currently fund five staff in the Council for that purpose. Two of these schemes are for Donegal Town and Letterkenny. On 2nd May 2023 the Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, announced that the OPW would pilot a new delivery model through four Tranche 2 flood relief schemes, including Donegal Town and Letterkenny.
The schemes for Raphoe and Lifford are being delivered by the OPW under the Arterial Drainage Acts. The design for the scheme in Kerrykeel is being led by the OPW with Donegal County Council to take the preferred option through planning.
Following flooding in Killybegs on the night of 23rd and into the morning of 24th November 2024 the OPW met with Donegal County Council (DCC) to review potential flood relief measures. Donegal County Council (DCC) and OPW have worked together to prepare a list of potential flood relief measures and have agreed a pilot scheme to roll out their deployment. The pilot is being 100% funded by the OPW.
Donegal County Council got approval for the first phase of works to undertake channel clearance, removal of overhanging vegetation and storm debris and to undertake an assessment of the drainage network together with supply and installation of non-return valves on DCC owned roads drainage system and drainage works.
Clearance works have now been completed, and the drainage network has been assessed on the ground. Installation of non-return valves remains under review and may require further amendments to the network prior to completion. This work will continue subject to further local assessment of both the network and resourcing.
DCC also got approval to engage consultants to undertake a Hydrological review of the CFRAM (Catchment-based Flood Risk Assessment and Management) data updating it to include the November 2024 event as well as the 2017 event (if possible) such that 2024 and 2017 return periods are estimated and design flows updated accordingly as necessary. The main output of the assessment is to prioritise short and medium term measures that could be undertaken, subject to planning consent.
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Raphoe Flood Relief Scheme The proposed flood relief scheme for Raphoe has an estimated budget of €12 million and when built, this scheme will protect 387 properties. The scheme has been submitted to the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastucture, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation under the Arterial Drainage Acts for statutory confirmation. DPER are currently making arrangements to exhibit the scheme for Public Consultation. No date has been confirmed for this yet. |
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Lifford Flood Relief Scheme The Lifford flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €17.5 million and when built, this scheme will protect 67 properties. The design of the scheme is at an advanced stage and is programmed to be submitted to the relevant planning authority in Q1 2027. |
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Castlefinn Flood Relief Scheme The Castlefinn flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €8.2 million and when built, this scheme will protect 33 properties. The design for the scheme has been identified and work is underway to submit this scheme to planning in Q2 2026. |
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Na Dúnaibh (Downings) Flood Relief Scheme The Na Dúnaibh (Downings) flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €6.5 million and when built will protect 58 properties. The design for this scheme is at an advanced stage and is due to be completed in the first part of 2026 and is programmed to be submitted for planning during the first half of 2026. |
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Glenties Flood Relief Scheme The Glenties Flood Relief scheme has an estimated budget of €0.5 million and when built it will protect 8 properties. A nature based solution (NBS) is being considered as part of the scheme's design and this option was further considered in November 2025 at the second workshop with the various stakeholders. It was essentially agreed that the Glenties Flood Relief Scheme will conclude at Stage I, which is programmed for May 2026 and that the Glenties NBS pilot study will progress as a multi-agency project. Further discussions will take place between the various stakeholders regarding this. |
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Burnfoot Flood Relief Scheme The Burnfoot Flood Relief scheme has an estimated budget of €13.6 million and when built will protect 49 properties. The option for this scheme is due to be submitted for planning consent in March 2026. |
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Ballybofey-Stranorlar Flood Relief Scheme The Ballybofey-Stranorlar flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €4.4 million and when built will protect 59 properties. The process to identify a design option is progressing, with a final design expected to be identified by the end of 2026 and thereafter submitted for planning consent. |
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Buncrana Flood Relief Scheme The Buncrana flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €6.8 million and when built will protect 32 properties. Work on the design of the scheme is progressing and is expected to be completed by Q1 2027 |
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Kerrykeel Flood Relief Scheme The Kerrykeel flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €1 million and when built will protect 13 properties. OPW is currently progressing the options development, as well as numerous surveys and reports for the completion of the scheme design. Subject to a successful and timely planning process, currently it is envisaged that construction of the scheme will begin in 2027. |
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Ramelton Flood Relief Scheme The Ramelton flood relief scheme has an estimated budget of €12.1 million and when built will protect 37 properties. The design of the scheme is at an advanced stage and a final option is expected by the end of 2026. |
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Letterkenny Flood Relief Scheme Donegal County Council has been meeting with local stakeholders and assessing data requirements and availability for the Letterkenny scheme. Work has also commenced to develop the scope for data survey contracts with the aim of procuring these in 2026 |
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Donegal Town Flood Relief Scheme Donegal County Council has been meeting with local stakeholders and assessing the data requirements and availability for the Donegal Town scheme. Work has also commenced to develop the scope for data survey contracts with the aim of procuring these in 2026. |
446. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of staff directly responsible for cybersecurity, as distinct from IT, within his Department; if a threat analyst, vulnerability manager and a cyber infrastructure engineer are employed; if not in-house, if this work is outsourced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9436/26]
View answerFor operational and security reasons, my Department does not disclose specific information relating to cybersecurity tools, expenditure, resources, or the detailed strategies employed to counter cyber threats. The Department recognises the importance of maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture, which includes having a dedicated cybersecurity function in place. My Department ensures staff stay up to date on evolving cyber security threats including malware, ransomware, phishing attacks and social engineering.
My Department has implemented an Information Security Management System (ISMS) framework, which includes certification to the globally recognised ISO/IEC 27001 security standard. This framework underpins our approach for managing and mitigating cyber risks. Core capabilities such as threat analysis, vulnerability management, and cyber infrastructure support are delivered through an appropriate combination of resources and skillsets.
447. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the extent to which his Department examines third party supply chain vulnerability when it comes to cybersecurity. [9454/26]
View answerMy Department manages third-party supply chain cybersecurity through its Information Security Management System (ISMS) framework, which includes certification to the globally recognised ISO/IEC 27001 security standard. This standard governs the assessment and treatment of supplier-related risks and requires a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with supply chain and vulnerability management.
All third-party services are subject to appropriate due diligence, contractual and security requirements, and ongoing oversight to ensure that cybersecurity risks are effectively identified and managed. These measures form part of the Department’s broader strategy to maintain a robust and resilient cybersecurity posture.
448. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether a consistent cost benefit and fiscal sustainability assessment framework is applied across major energy, transport and electricity grid infrastructure projects funded under the National Development Plan; whether this framework has been reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9574/26]
View answerMy Department is responsible for the Infrastructure Guidelines, which replaced the Public Spending Code for capital appraisal since end 2023. These set the value for money requirements and guidance for evaluating, planning and managing Exchequer-funded capital projects. Management and delivery of investment projects and public services within allocation and the national frameworks is a key responsibility of every Department, Accounting Officer and Minister.
As part of the appraisal process for projects under the Infrastructure Guidelines, Sponsoring Agents for the projects are asked to critically consider the potential schedule and cost implications of a project, which is further developed as a project progresses through the approval gates and more information becomes available as it moves from the preliminary to final business case before the awarding of the contract. This includes both detailed financial and economic appraisal, sensitivity analysis, accounting for behavioural influences such as optimism bias as well as consideration of appropriate levels of contingency.
To further ensure value for money, where a project is considered a major project, this project must also be reviewed by the Major Projects Advisory Group (MPAG) at Approval Gate 1, overseen by my Department, to allow for greater scrutiny and clarity regarding such projects.
My Department has recently completed and published the Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan, which sets out a number of measures to address identified barriers to infrastructure development in Ireland.
The actions arising from this work in relation to the Infrastructure Guidelines are currently being progressed by officials in my Department. As with previous updates to the appraisal framework, any changes made will reflect international best practice with the aim to ensure value for money for the tax payer in delivering on the infrastructural requirements of the State.
449. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if no central monitoring or enforcement mechanism exists to ensure consistent publication of procurement-related payment data in machine-readable formats across the public service; his views that this results in uneven transparency standards between Departments and agencies; and whether he will consider issuing updated guidance or a circular to standardise publication formats in the interest of transparency, re-use and public accountability. [9605/26]
View answerThe publication of procurement-related data in open, machine-readable formats is encouraged in line with Government’s National Open Data Strategy 2023 - 2027 and the EU Open Data Directive 2019/1024, as transposed into Irish law through S.I. No. 376/2021. This framework requires public service bodies to make appropriate public sector data available for reuse, free of charge, in machine-readable formats and, where appropriate, through APIs.
Guidance on the publication of datasets was provided to Government Departments, local authorities and publicly-funded bodies and undertakings via Circular 20/2021. Information on public bodies’ obligations and support for good practice in relation to publishing Open Data is also available on the national Open Data Portal – data.gov.ie.–Responsibility for implementing this guidance, and for ensuring the quality and timeliness of published datasets, rests with individual Departments and public service bodies (PSBs) and undertakings.
My Department provides supports to PSBs to meet their obligations and also central coordination and monitoring including through:
• Supports coordinated by my Department in line with the Open Data Strategy 2023-2027 including training, guidance, communications and engagement opportunities.
• The national Open Data Portal, data.gov.ie, including monitoring the numbers of published datasets and publishers
• Engagement with Open Data Liaison Officers across the public service;
• The Open Data Governance Board, Open Data Liaison Officers, and the Open Data Advisory Group, which support consistency, peer learning and issue resolution.
• Periodic reporting and structured updates to the European Commission in the context of Ireland’s obligations under the Open Data Directive and the EU High-Value Datasets Implementing Regulation.
• Bi-annual completion of the OECD OURdata Index.
Ireland’s strong performance in the EU Open Data Maturity Assessment, where Ireland ranked among the top five countries in Europe in both 2024 and 2025, reflects the effectiveness of our coordinated approach, including the availability of shared platforms, technical supports and advisory services that lower barriers to publication and reuse.
My Department will also shortly issue a letter to all Government Departments, reminding them of their obligations under the Open Data Directive and Freedom of Information Act 2014, and asking them to share this information with all of the offices and agencies under their remit,.
My Department will continue to work with colleagues across the public service to improve the consistency, quality and reuse of procurement-related data, recognising its importance for transparency, accountability, innovation and evidence-informed policy making.
450. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the total value of overpayments to Ministers current and former; the total outstanding overpayments; the total outstanding overpayment for which no repayment plan is in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9644/26]
View answer451. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the maximum duration applied to a payment plan in place for any Minister both current and former; the dates that all Ministerial overpayment letters were sent; the number of queries received by NSSO; the number of queries received by the NSSO from Ministers not currently engaged in a repayment plan as of 10 January 2026; the number of appeals received by the NSSO as of 10 January 2026; the number of appeals received within the 21 calendar days from the issuing of the overpayment letters; the number of second overpayment letters issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9645/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 450 and 451 together.
The NSSO processes Ministerial allowances to Ministers/Ministers of State on behalf of their respective Departments. The matters outlined below relate to pension-related deductions, and not salary overpayments.
On completion of the review of Pension and Additional Superannuation Contributions (ASC), the NSSO identified that the aggregate miscalculation in respect of Pension/ ASC deductions was €359,829. This figure relates to all those current and former Ministers/Ministers of State impacted, and a small number of other Officers impacted by this review.
As of February 10:
- Approximately 72% have been paid in full or are included in an agreed payment plan.
- Approximately 28% of the amount is outstanding for which no payment plan is yet in place.
It is important to note that the above figures relate to all individuals impacted by this review (current and former Ministers, Ministers of State and a small number of other Office Holders). To provide any further breakdown would raise matters of privacy and confidentiality as they relate to personal pension information, and could lead to implications with respect to GDPR and the Data Protection Act, 2018.
As standard in these cases, the NSSO and/or the employer works with the individual to resolve the under-deduction on a case by case basis. Where there is an under-deduction of pension contribution, the NSSO applies a standard and consistent practice to all individuals and employees with regard to repayment plans.
Engagement commenced with all current Ministers/Ministers of State impacted on June 10th, 2025. Follow-up communications to those not then in a payment plan were issued on September 16, and again on November 7, and engagement has been ongoing since. There has been ongoing engagement to address any outstanding queries throughout this time. The NSSO has reached agreement with all current Ministers and Ministers of State.
In relation to former Ministers, first contact was made on September 25, following the completion of the review into this cohort, with follow up issuing in November and February 2026. Work is ongoing to engage with these individuals and finalise payment arrangements. Engagement is ongoing with a small number of queries still being worked through.
The NSSO is fully committed to ensuring that all monies owed to the State are fully recouped and will continue to follow-up with impacted individuals to finalise payment plans.
452. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he believes in the need for good-quality, publicly-available financial information of the non-profit sector in the interest of identifying funding gaps, analysing performance and promoting transparency; if he will consider reinstating funding for an organisation with such a mandate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9664/26]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, in 2019, my Department received an independent report, which it commissioned to provide analysis of the market for data on the non-profit sector. This report examined, inter alia, issues around the demand for the data concerned, methodologies and technologies used, the potential for direct provision by the State of these services itself, and the maturity of the market to provide these services efficiently.
On foot of this report, a review was undertaken in 2020 which found that the business case for the continued funding of an independent organisation to provide publicly available financial information of the non-profit sector by my Department was no longer justified.
Recognising that other public service bodies with direct policy involvement in the not-for-profit sector may have wished to consider whether they had an appreciable business case to continue funding for this initiative, my Department agreed to fund the initiative up to the end of 2021. This provision was made to facilitate relevant public service bodies to consider their position and to assess all options in relation to their respective business needs concerning data on the not-for-profit sector.
My Department has no plans to provide funding to an independent organisation to provide financial information of the non-profit sector.
453. Deputy Máire Devine asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation his views on a matter (details supplied). [9681/26]
View answerThe Office of Public Works (OPW) is aware of the concerns raised by residents in relation to lands adjoining 1 Inchicore Road, Dublin 8, in the vicinity of Kilmainham Gaol, a National Monument in the care of the OPW.
While the lands at 1 Inchicore Road are not currently in OPW ownership, the OPW has long-standing operational use of the access route adjoining Kilmainham Gaol to support the management, maintenance, and operation of the national monument. The OPW takes seriously its responsibilities to safeguard the integrity, setting, and safe operation of Kilmainham Gaol.
The OPW has not granted consent for the use of this access route or adjoining OPW lands to facilitate intensive commercial activity unrelated to the operation of the Gaol. The OPW is actively reviewing the current use of the access route, including reports of unauthorised parking, alterations to boundary features, and access management, to ensure that OPW property and interests are protected.
Where concerns have been raised regarding potential unauthorised works to OPW structures or encroachment on OPW-managed lands, these matters are being examined and will be addressed as appropriate.
Matters relating to planning compliance, environmental health, waste management, noise, and housing standards fall within the statutory remit of Dublin City Council and other regulatory authorities. The OPW will continue to cooperate fully with those bodies to ensure that any issues impacting the National Monument, local residents, or visitors are appropriately addressed.
The OPW remains committed to ensuring that access and activities in the vicinity of Kilmainham Gaol are managed in a manner that is safe, lawful, and respectful of its historic setting.
454. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the immediate action being taken to expediate the Slaney flood relief scheme; and when the interim measures mentioned in his recent visit to Enniscorthy will be put in place. [9701/26]
View answerThe town of Enniscorthy has a long history of flooding, including in 2000 and 2015. The recent flooding event from Storm Chandra resulted in significant and serious property damage and disruption in the town and the community. Flooding during and since Storm Chandra came from multiple sources, including the river and the sea. For those communities impacted by this flooding event and where a major flood relief scheme is planned but not yet completed, I have asked those local authorities to set out a plan of all interim measures that can help mitigate flood risk from all sources. I expect to receive these plans over the coming weeks and I will update my Government colleagues of these proposals. Whilst we await these plans from Wexford County Council immediate interim measures have been put in place by the Council. Sandbags have been distributed and placed alongside the River Slaney and its surrounding homes and businesses to prevent further flooding. Aqua Dams have been installed by Wexford County Council at Wexford Harbour to block rising water. These measures have also been put in place along the quay and promenade of Enniscorthy near the Seamus Rafter Bridge.
Following refusal of the original Scheme by the Minister for Public Expenditure in March 2022 there has been extensive engagement between the OPW and Wexford County Council on a flood relief scheme for Enniscorthy. In Q4 2023, Wexford County Council, who are the contracting authority for the Scheme, submitted a proposed strategy for the progression of the Scheme to the OPW. The proposed strategy, which was approved by the OPW, comprises two phases for the delivery of the Scheme. The main elements of the first phase will include the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, the construction of a new pedestrian bridge and the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, which poses an obstruction to river flow through the town centre during flood events. Phase 2 of the Scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town.
The Project Steering Group, that meets monthly, is currently progressing both phases. On the design options for Phase 1, an initial Public Consultation took place in Q2 2025 to present emerging options to the public. A second PCD event took place in Q4 2025. The development of the Options Report is now being progressed following feedback from the general public.To assist with a planning application submission to An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP), relevant environmental surveys are currently being updated and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be prepared and are programmed for completion in Q3 2026. It is envisaged that a planning application will be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) in Q2 2027. Prior to lodging a planning application with ACP a Maritime Area Consent (MAC) application will be required from the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) that is to be submitted in Q2 2026. With regards to Phase 2, Wexford County Council and the OPW are currently finalising a Project Brief in order to issue a tender for the appointment of a consultant and it is expected to go to tender in Q1 2026. It is envisaged a consultant will be appointed in Q2 2026. A detailed Programme for the overall Scheme (Phase 1 & Phase 2) will subsequently be developed for the Scheme following the appointment of a consultant for Phase 2. The OPW and Wexford County Council must meet all of the statutory and regulatory requirements in designing a flood relief scheme to secure planning consent. The OPW and the Council remain committed to the progression of this Scheme, which currently has an approved total project budget of approximately €51m, which will be funded under the Government’s funding for flood relief measures under the National Development Plan. The OPW’s Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, since 2009, has approved over €70m for some 900 projects that are mitigating flood risk to over 8,000 properties. This scheme that provides 90% funding, remains available and I will shortly be announcing the details on increasing the scope of this scheme, including increasing the funding available from €750,000 to €2m for each project.This scheme is available to fund localised measures to all communities to manage flood risk from rivers and the sea. It is also available to introduce those interim measures that can mitigate the flood risk to those communities pending completion of a major flood relief scheme. At this time the OPW is delivering major flood relief schemes to some 150 communities.
455. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide emergency funding for coastal protection works at Rossbeigh Beach, Glenbeigh, County Kerry as a matter of extreme urgency (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9724/26]
View answerLocal coastal erosion and flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each local authority to investigate and address. The OPW is working closely with Kerry County Council (KCC) to implement a number of initiatives to deal with the issues of coastal protection in the county
Minor Works Scheme
The Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme was introduced by the Office of Public Works (OPW) in 2009. The purpose of the scheme is to provide 90% funding to local authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding or coastal erosion problems. The scheme generally applies where a solution can be readily identified and achieved in a short time frame. The funding available for each scheme has recently been increased from €750,000 to €2 million. Further details related to this are due to be announced shortly.
Since 2009, OPW has approved some 40 projects and €4.2m to KCC under the Minor Works Schemes. Some €2.9m of this approved funding relates to coastal erosion works or studies.
Rossbeigh
KCC confirmed that significant repairs of the coastal defences at Rossbeigh Beach were undertaken in 2014. They engaged consultants Malachy Walsh and Partners (MWP) to carry out a summary report on Rossbeigh.
Based on a design by MWP, KCC submitted an application for funding under the Minor Works Scheme for the construction of a rock revetment at Rossbeigh. Funding of €450,000 was approved by the OPW for these works. These works were confirmed completed in 2019.
The Minor Works Scheme is a demand orientated scheme. No further applications have been submitted to OPW by KCC for Rossbeigh.
Coastal Change Management
The Government recognises the risks associated with climate change and that increases in sea levels and storm surges will result in increased frequency of coastal erosion. In response to these challenges, the recommendations outlined in the Report of the Interdepartmental Group on National Coastal Change Management Strategy are being implemented. Amongst the key recommendations of the Report is the assignment of the lead coordination role to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, which is responsible for chairing an Interdepartmental Steering Group on Coastal Change Management.
The OPW has been designated by Government as the national lead coordinating body for the assessment of coastal change hazards and risks and the assessment of technical options and constraints. These assessments will build upon indicative assessment work previously undertaken by the OPW under the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study, and comprise a substantial, multi-annual programme of work to assess coastal risk nationally, and then in detail at higher risk locations as a basis for then determining potential viable works to manage this risk. This work will contribute to the work of the Interdepartmental Steering Group on Coastal Change Management.
456. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide emergency funding for flood relief/protection works at Cromane Lower, Killorglin, County Kerry as a matter of urgency (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9725/26]
View answerCoastal protection and localised flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each local authority to investigate and address, and local authorities may carry out these works using their own resources. Kerry County Council may apply to the OPW for funding for flood mitigation works under the OPW's Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme. This scheme was introduced by the OPW on an administrative, non-statutory basis in 2009. The purpose of the scheme is to provide funding to Local Authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works, or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas.
The criteria for the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme are currently under review, and any application under the scheme will be considered against revised criteria. The OPW expect to advise Local Authorities of the revised criteria for the scheme shortly. Since 2009, the OPW has approved funding under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme of approximately €4.2 million to County Kerry for some 40 projects.
While the OPW has no current applications for funding for works at Cromane Lower, Killorglin, funding of €100,000 was approved under the scheme for Kerry County Council for embankment strengthening works at Cromane in 2012, with the works being completed in December of that year. The OPW welcomes applications for funding under the scheme and is available to engage with Local Authorities in this regard.
457. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation for an update and date of completion and commission of a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9811/26]
View answerThe project for a new Garda Station at Bailieborough, Co. Cavan includes conservation of the existing former National Irish Bank building and the construction of a new three storey over basement building to the rear on a site located on the town’s main street. A significant portion of these works are now complete.The purchase of a neighbouring property by the Office of Public Works (OPW) allowed for the provision of extra secure parking spaces and safer processing of those being arrested. Plans to facilitate this were approved by Garda Estate Management and the associated Planning Permission for the works was granted in September 2023. These works are progressing as part of the overall project.
It is expected that all works will be completed in April 2026 and thereafter An Garda Síochána (AGS) will commence occupation of the building. The date for the opening of the station is an operational matter for AGS.
458. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide a list of all capital works upgrades carried out at Dungarvan Garda station by the OPW since 2023, in tabular form. [9843/26]
View answerThe Office of Public Works (OPW) can confirm that no Capital Upgrade works have been carried out at Dungarvan Garda Station since 2023.
