A local TD has sought an update on cross-Border cooperation to tackle flooding and drainage issues affecting County Cavan, particularly along the River Erne.
Brendan Smith raised the issue in the Dail this week, asking if it is proposed to intensify the level of co-operation on a cross-Border basis in relation to flooding and draining issues; if there are specific proposals to deal with flooding difficulties in County Cavan caused by the river Erne.
In response to the question, Minister of State Kevin Boxer Moran said the OPW and Northern Ireland's Department for Infrastructure continue to work closely on flood risk management, with a Cross-Border Co-ordination Group meeting on numerous occasions, with another meeting planned later this year.
He also noted that a study revealed that water levels in the majority of the Erne catchment in Ireland remain unchanged regardless of any works that could be carried out in Northern Ireland.
When it comes to Cavan, the Minister added that the OPW is funding 1.5 staff members in Cavan County Council to lead the delivery of flood projects across the county and the Council is working in partnership with the OPW. The Council is leading the delivery of the Cavan Town Flood Relief Scheme to protect 110 properties.
It was noted that localised flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each Local Authority to investigate and address.
Since 2009, the OPW has approved funding under this scheme of some €518,566 to County Cavan for 11 projects. This includes funding of €55,264 in April 2025 for interim works at Pollamore for a temporary flood plain storage area and delay flood peaks reaching the mouth of the culvert downstream at the Business Park.
The Minister noted that he also recently announced details of once-off funding of €70,000 to Cavan County Council to remove river conveyance blockages in County Cavan.
