Plea for flood information ahead of high tides

An information campaign for people living in flood-prone areas should be launched before the weekend’s high tides, it was claimed tonight.

Senator Cyprian Brady said residents near rivers and canals should be made fully aware of the risks they face.

Local radio and the papers should be used to warn people when the tides will be at their highest and which areas are of greatest risk, he said.

“While the council says it is preparing sandbags, it is important that they are placed in areas close to the Liffey, Tolka and Dodder ready for use if the rivers break their banks,” said the Dublin Central Fianna Fail Candidate. “Protection is also required along the Royal and Grand Canals.

“While at this stage the indications are that we will escape widespread flooding as there is no heavy rain forecast during the high tides, there can be no room for complacency.”

Minister for the Environment Dick Roche yesterday warned the worst floods for 25 years could hit coastal towns this weekend, and urged local authorities to clear all drains and have sandbags ready for local homes and businesses.

“We should use the weekend tides to ensure that our flood defences are in proper order and are ready to protect homes and businesses,” added Senator Brady.

“These defences need to be working not just this weekend, but for the winter months ahead to ensure we do not fall victim to flooding.”