Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 April 2026
581. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current status of the proposed relocation plan relating to Elm Park, Buncrana, County Donegal; the scope and objectives of this plan; if a final decision has been made in respect of the relocation; to provide a timeline for implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28606/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022 commenced on 22 June 2023. It underpins the current grant scheme and the related Regulations were adopted on 29 June 2023.
I visited Donegal last year where I met many of the residents affected and I understand the flood issue pertaining to Elm Park in Buncrana, where nine homeowners are particularly affected.
Some of homeowners impacted are eligible to avail of the Defective Concrete Block Scheme which is funded by my Department but they are understandably worried about availing of the scheme and remediating their homes without the flood risk having been addressed. I know that the Office of Public Works has a plan to undertake flood relief works in the coming period in that area which will address the flood risk.
The residents however, are concerned about the length of time before those flood works would be completed and have asked that consideration be given to relocation options.
I appreciate the genuine concerns of the residents based on their own personal experiences in recent years. Therefore, I am disposed towards exploring solutions to the flooding issue based on the needs of those affected if a workable solution can be found.
I know that in the past the OPW have used relocation schemes in some small and specific circumstances. I have asked officials in my Department to work with the Office of Public Works on examining the potential to develop a relocation scheme which might address the needs of the community in Elm Park, whilst remaining consistent with the underlying DCB legislation and the principles of good governance and value for public monies. Any such scheme must also remain cognisant of the broader flood relief works being undertaken by the OPW in the wider area.
My Department and the OPW are exploring the feasibility of relocating the residents and are preparing a report on whether and how a relocation scheme might work. Once I have that I will consider same with the Minister of State for the Office of Public Works with a view to bringing options to Government.
