€191,000 AVAILABLE TO LOUTH CO CO FOR COASTAL PROTECTION & FLOOD DEFENCE-

Labour Senator Mary Moran has welcomed the availability of €191,000 for the repair and restoration of coastal protection and flood defence works for Louth County Council following the severe and damaging storms of December and January.

'Many coastal counties were effected by the storms over the Christmas period with extensive damage caused to infrastructure, homes and businesses. Co. Louth experienced it's own share of damage with Louth County Council estimating repairs totalling €225,000 in mid-January.

'I know that many Dundalk businesses based at the Quays and on the Promenade in Blackrock were forced to close due to flood waters and necessary clean-up during the first week of January. Speaking with business owners, I am aware that these damaging storms coupled with the post-Christmas lull has had a detrimental effect overall on their business.

'The local infrastructure also suffered with works required on the coast road from Ballagan to Whitestown due to erosion along many sections; to footpaths and seawalls in the Blackrock area; sea defences and road works required at Ballagan; and other necessary repairs throughout the area.

'The announcement of €191,000 being made available will specifically address the damage done to our coastal protection and flood defences and give needed assistance to the council in carrying out the repairs. The OPW is very conscious of the need to carry out many of these works quickly and has offered to consider requests of advance funding of up to 80% to local authorities where a contract for works has been made.'