Flood warning leads to criticism

AS flood warnings were issued yesterday for Cork city and county, the OPW (Office of Public Works) was criticised for not reacting swiftly enough to the growing prospect of global warming submerging low-lying areas.

The local authorities have said that between Friday and Monday next, high tides of up to 4.8 metres are expected.

Experts say a combination of rain, high tides and a south-easterly wind will lead to serious flooding.

Businesses in Cork city centre were stocking up with sandbags yesterday, in preparation for the first high tide which is expected at 5.47pm tomorrow.

Patrick’s Street, Oliver Plunkett Street, Kyrl’s Quay, Union Quay, Lavitt’s Quay, Trinity Street and Sawmill Street are said to be at risk.

Meanwhile, the minister in charge of the OPW, Tom Parlon, has been criticised for failing to move faster to help prevent flooding.

In 2004 the Government launch a new flood-prevention policy, but it wasn’t until earlier this week that Mr Parlon announced a major flood risk assessment for the Lower Lee.

“I’m very disappointed that this study wasn’t undertaken much earlier. There is no mention from Minister Parlon when the OPW might actually consider starting work. It could be years away,” Cllr Gerry Kelly said.