Sean Fleming, Minister of State in the Department of Foreign Affairs, has announced that Laois will receive €121,500 funding for flood works in critical areas.
The areas in question are Whitehorse River, Mountrath and the River Nore near Abbeyleix.
“I am very pleased that this funding has been received as everybody in Mountrath is well aware of the flooding that occurs in the river in the town,” Deputy Fleming said.
“This is an ongoing problem and I am pleased that this funding will help the situation.
“Also, many landowners along the River Nore have been in touch with me about flooding and I am pleased that this funding will also help in that area.
“This funding is being provided under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works & Coastal Protection Scheme. This will allow for the removal of deadwood and debris in Whitehorse River in Mountrath.
“The funded project will also prune trees causing restrictions to the river. This will cover approximately 6.5km along the river from Mountrath town.
“The funding will also remove deadwood and debris long the River Nore near Abbeyleix.
“The project will also include the pruning of trees for approximately 6.5km along the River Nore, from Watercastle Bridge.
“This is a very welcome announcement and the works being funded will help to prevent flooding in the local area.
“The OPW’s Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme provides funding to local authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas.”
