Annual Report 2005 - The Office of Public Works

Preparation is underway for the commissioning of an aerial survey of substantial areas of
floodplain throughout the country which is required as a foundation of this Programme. It is
proposed that this survey contract will be undertaken in partnership with other stakeholders.
Flood Forecasting and Warning Programme
Flood forecasting systems are under development and testing for Mallow, Fermoy and
Clonmel in connection with the implementation of flood relief schemes for these towns that
are dependent on the provision of flood warning.
Emergency Response Development Programme
The OPW are in the process of initiating a project to prepare guidelines on the preparation of
flood event emergency response plans, in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.
Public Awareness and Preparedness Programme
The general awareness and preparedness brochure and website (www.flooding.ie) were
launched in December 2005, and are being supported by an ongoing publicity campaign.
Planning and Development Management Programme
Tri-lateral discussions were initiated between the OPW, Department of Environment, Heritage
and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural
Resources on the consideration of flood risk in planning and development management.
High-Risk Channel Designation Programme
Consideration commenced on possible mechanisms for the designation process of high-risk
channels, and possible legislative issues associated with such a process.
Prioritisation of Expenditure
Draft systems to enable prioritisation between programmes and schemes were established and
are currently undergoing testing, review and refinement.
Asset Database and Management Programme
The development of a defence asset database has been included as an item within the
specification prepared for one of the pilot Flood Risk Assessment and Management Studies,
for use on that study and also nationally.
OPW Flood Response Development Programme
A draft OPW flood response procedure has been developed and is under review.
Quality Service
• Engineering Services achieved accreditation to the Institution of Engineers of Ireland
Continuing Professional Development training scheme for professional and technical staff.
• All Engineering Services sections already accredited to the ISO 9001 standard retained that
status following external audits conducted in 2005.
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