A plaque has been unveiled in Dublin city to mark the completion of new flood protection works, constructed as part of the Spencer Dock Sea Lock Restoration Project, on the Royal Canal.

The new flood gates completed a programme of flood protection, which were started following the unprecedented tidal flooding in February 2002, the highest tide since 1923.

The East Wall Area was one area which was badly affected by the February 2002 floods and the Spencer Dock measures have been designed to provide flood protection to nationally recognised standards.

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The €7m Spencer Dock Restoration project was lead by Dublin City Council and promoted and funded by a consortium of stakeholders including Dublin Docklands Development Authority and the Office of Public Works, in conjunction with Waterways Ireland who will operate the Spencer Dock complex

The restoration project is unique in Ireland, containing, in the one lock complex new flood protection gates, known as sector gates; and new navigation gates, known as mitre gates.

The final phase of the works will involve the commissioning of the navigational channel and lock at Spencer Dock.

Waterways Ireland Chief Executive, John Martin, said: "I am delighted the sea lock on the Royal Canal is now operational.

"The re-opening of the Royal Canal is a large investment by Waterways Ireland. This partnership with Dublin City Council, the Office of Public Works and Dublin Docklands Development Authority has effectively delivered this phase of the project and we look forward to the reopening of the Royal Canal in 2010."

(PR/JM)