Flood relief ‘needs 15 years of sustained investment’

WE need sustained investment in flood relief for at least 15 years, as new research predicts extreme weather events here are becoming more common.

Minister at the Office of Public Works Martin Mansergh said 40 minor relief schemes had been announced since last November when flooding caused widespread damage in south and east Galway and Cork.

Mr Mansergh said that he expected at least €12 million would be spent to protect against flooding in the Galway region alone between now and 2012.