Flood impact report to be made public

THE results of a severity and impact report into the recent severe flooding in Newcastle West will be made known at a public meeting in the town next week.

Limerick County Council has organised the meeting, which will be held at Áras William Smith O’Brien on Tuesday next at 8pm.

JBA Consulting is preparing the report, which will be completed by the end of this week.

The council decided to commission the report following strong criticism at a public meeting.

Up to 93mm of rainfall — equivalent to a month’s rain — was recorded near Newcastle West over a five-hour period on August 1.

The rains caused the River Arra to burst its banks for the first time in living memory.

Eugene Griffin, Limerick county secretary said: “Among those present at the upcoming meeting will be representatives from the Office of Public Works and JBA Consulting, as well as the council’s transport and infrastructure, environment and housing sections.

“Anyone affected by the floods is welcome to attend the meeting.”

Many homes damaged by flood waters are still not habitable and people are continuing to stay with relatives.

Most of the business forced to close have since reopened.