Galway Bay fm newsroom – Businesses in Ballinasloe are calling on the OPW Minister to urgently provide a flood barrier to protect the recently flooded St Michael’s Square area of the town.
During a visit to the town today, Minister Simon Harris has given assurances on a number of long and short term flood relief measures for Ballinasloe.
The minister met with local representatives, community groups and business owners at the Civic Offices in the town, where he heard a range of local concerns.
He gave assurances that the OPW will return to Ballinasloe in January to present a number of permanent flood relief measures for the town.
During a walkabout of the town a short time ago, Minister Harris also revealed that he has this morning signed off on remedial works to be carried out at Deerpark.
The OPW has also committed to liase with Galway County Council following local suggestions for a retractable flood barrier at St Michael’s Square.
Speaking to NewsBreak, local business representative Ciara Croffy says short term flood prevention measures need to be put in place as quickly as possible.
Minister Simon Harris says OPW officials will now meet with Galway County Council officials as a matter of urgency.
Minister Harris also paid tribute to the massive community effort that took place in Ballinasloe in the aftermath of Storm Desmond.