Flood scheme could commence this year
Crossmolina has been devastated by flooding on a number of occasions as residents nervously await the delivery of a Flood Relief Scheme
Minister for State Alan Dillon is hoping that works could commence on the long-awaited Crossmolina Flood Relief Scheme later this year if the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform gives the go-ahead for this scheme.
Minister Dillon said he recently wrote to the Minister of the Office of Public Works (OPW) Kieran O’Donnell seeking an update on the scheme on behalf of residents, businesses and the community in Crossmolina impacted by flooding and the threat of flooding.
The OPW said the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform (DEPR) requested the OPW confirm they can comply with a number of specified conditions in the event the scheme is given Ministerial Consent.
The OPW responded to confirm they will reply with these conditions. Minister Dillon said this was good news for the progress of the scheme.
“If confirmation is received at the end of July 2024, we could see works commence as early as the end of October 2024. This is a testament to the dedication and preparedness of the OPW, Mayo County Council and the Steering Group for the Crossmolina FRS,” he said.
Deputy Michael Ring said the issue of the schemes commencement has been going on for a number of years but is pleased with the update from the OPW.
“I have no doubt that Minister Paschal Donohoe will give consent to this scheme. The people of Crossmolina have been waiting a long time for progress to be made on this,” he said.
“If confirmed, the construction of this scheme will be undertaken by the OPW’s own direct workforce. It will not be going to tender. The OPW has mobilisation plans in place to commence works, following confirmation and required statutory process for judicial challenges to any decision by the Minister.”
