The Finn doesn’t recognise the Border
AUTHORITIES north and south are to meet in a bid to battle the floods which caused havoc along the Finn on both sides of the border last month.
Fine Gael Minister Joe McHugh will be meeting with the OPW and other authorities in Dublin next week – and wants to meet Northern minister Mark Durkan.
“Following the flooding that has been experienced in Donegal this winter, especially in areas like Castlefin, Ballybofey and Lifford, I have arranged a meeting in Dublin next week to discuss what procedures and supports are available to those affected by the adverse weather,” said the Donegal TD.
“I will be attending the meeting, along with Seamus Neely, Donegal County Manager, and representatives from the Office of Public Works (OPW), National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Loughs Agency, and an official from my own Dept of Natural Resources.
“At this meeting, we will be discussing the flooding that has impacted so many people, homes and businesses in Donegal, and what support is available from the Government to help those badly affected. Earlier this week, I welcomed the provisions of €10 million extra for the flooding clean-up fund approved by Cabinet.
“In addition to the funding, we will also be discussing a number of other issues, including the impact of coastal erosion on places like Ballyliffin/ Portsalon golf clubs and Maghery beach, as well as a number of planning issues. This will be a great opportunity to have all the relevant parties around the same table and to make real inroads into these issues.
“The flooding issue is a key priority for so many that have been affected, and I believe this is an issue where a cross-border approach could have many benefits. Therefor I am requesting a meeting with the North’s Environment Minister Mark H Durkan to see if a combined effort can be made to help these communities.
“During a North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) meeting last month which I attended, I welcomed the commitment from the Irish Government to spend €2.5 million on a North West Development Fund, which will be complemented by matching funding from the Northern Executive. This type of thinking, where we combine our resources and skills and work together, will benefit communities on both sides of the border and this is what I will be discussing with Minister Durkan.”
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