An Bord Pleanála has been slammed over its delay on a decision for a minor flood relief scheme in south Galway.

The decision has been deferred many times despite the application for the project being lodged last year.

Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East Anne Rabbitte said the after effects are impacting on dozens of families in the area.

She said: "We are facing storm after storm, well after the traditional winter months, and despite this, An Bord Pleanála are continuing to delay on a decision on much needed flood relief scheme. While the whole problem cannot be solved in one go, it is imperative that the first steps are taken to begin the process of alleviating the pressure on the Dunkellin river and Kinvara area.

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"Government TDs have assured us time and time again that €6m has been ringfenced for flood works – that money needs to be spent. The OPW is scheduled to carry out the works, removing the need for a long tendering process, An Bord Pleanála and the Galway County manager need to move the project along.

"These continuous delays are putting lives and livelihoods at risk and it is high time that some shape was put on the situation."

(CD)