Cobh Landslide Funding Awaited– Stanton

David Stanton, Fine Gael TD for Cork East ha raised the need for the Government to provide more funding to prevent and alleviate landslides in the Cobh area in Dail Eireann.  Funding could also be used to carry out repairs works to areas damaged by landslides in the past.

“In response to a parliamentary question last week the Minister for the Environment confirmed that he had received a request from Cobh Town Council seeking funding for slope stabilisation works in Cobh.  On foot of this request, the Minister asked Cork County Council and Cobh Town Council to commission an independent export report on what work was required.

“I understand from the Minister that a consulting engineering firm has been assessing the retaining structures in Cobh.  They will then be recommending remediation works with the most urgent works taking priority.  The Department of Environment officials have also met with staff from both Councils to discuss the situation and to agree a works schedule.

“The Department of the Environment has provided approximately €5 million in funding for landslide works over a number of decades.  I believe the last funding amount was for €1 million in 2008/2009 and I would hope that more will be made available without delay as is really needed.

“The Minister stated he expects that a decision on the recent funding request shortly.  I would urge him to accede to the funding request so the necessary and urgent works can be carried out in Cobh as soon as possible.