OPW criticised for lack of info on Templemore Flood Relief Works

Local Councillors are demanding that the OPW come back to them with honest answers about a €10 million flood relief scheme in Templemore.

Members were up in arms over a presentation to the June District council meeting on plans to permanently divert the River Mall from its natural course through a storm drain.

Office of Public Works Engineer Paul Kiernan told councillors that efforts to buy some of the land needed to complete the project fell through because the seller chose to go with a different buyer.

But Fianna Fail’s John Hogan says this account is contradicted by documents he’s seen.

There was huge anger over the lack of detailed information being provided of a major project that is due to start soon and take up to two years to finish.

The Office of Public Works has been asked to return to a special meeting of the District in two weeks time to provide proper answers to councillors questions.

Councillor Eddie Moran says the OPW need to engage properly with the local community and their representatives.