The main drainage scheme in Bandon is to be prioritised and done in conjunction with the local flood relief works, Cork South West Fianna Fáil TD Christy O’Sullivan has learned. Deputy O’Sullivan was informed that the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government will be hoping to put both projects in place over the coming months.
“I met with Minister John Gormley and he informed me that the Department will make the Bandon main drainage scheme a priority project,” said Deputy O’Sullivan. “This should help progress the scheme quicker and ensure that we have a better system in place to cope with the water drainage issues in the Bandon area.”
“The Minister also confirmed that his Department were hoping to put the drainage works in place in conjunction with the flood relief works that are being done in Bandon. This makes a lot of sense. In effect it will provide an overarching solution to the water issues that have been a problem in many parts of Bandon and created a lot of hassle for local residents, farmers and businesses.”
“This follows on from the Department requesting information from Cork County Council last September. That information is now being studied by the Department inspector and we should hopefully see some more progress soon.”
“I also met with Minister Martin Mansergh about this issue and he too supports the idea of both schemes being put in place in tandem. This joint approach makes sense as it will help things move forward and mean that the measures will take effect in a more co-ordinated manner that will come as a boost to the town.”
“Now that Minister Gormley has made this commitment, I will be following up with him and the Department closely in the coming weeks to ensure that both projects are developing and that they are put in place in the near future,” Deputy O’Sullivan concluded.