Works to go ahead this year with Office of Public Works to tender project.
Galway West/Mayo South Deputy Sean Kyne has this morning welcomed the assurance from Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Brian Hayes, TD that the River Clare Drainage Scheme at Claregalway will be carried out in 2014.
Commented Deputy Kyne: “The recent flooding and storm damage has been a reminder of the terrible and unprecedented flooding with Claregalway experienced in late 2009.
While relief works such as the installation of a new bridge have already been carried out the proposed works are essential to guard against flooding. The proposed works include the deepening of the channel at the new bridge in Claregalway village, the maintenance of the channel from the Curraghline (N84) downstream, the creation of a two-stage channel and an embankment at Crusheen, close to the new bridge, the cleaning and extension of the island drain to Carnmore to relieve regular flooding near Greaney Glass, and the installation of a one-way valve to prevent water from backing up in times of heavy rainfall or flooding.
Last year Minister Hayes visited the area with local councillors Peter Feeney (FG) and Malachy Noone (FF) and OPW officials and saw for himself the extent of the works already carried out but also the level of works still required to prevent further flooding.
The OPW will shortly commence a tendering process to select suitable companies so that the vital work can get underway,” concluded Deputy Kyne.
