Both representatives say the situation is becoming more serious each year and warn that without immediate intervention from the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Louth County Council, coastal flooding in the area will continue to worsen.
The call follows a Parliamentary Question submitted by Deputy Nash, which confirmed that responsibility for localised flooding rests initially with local authorities. Councils can carry out their own mitigation works or apply for OPW funding under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.
Mayor Hall noted that while this scheme has provided Louth with almost €1.9 million for 26 projects since 2009, no application has yet been submitted for Seapoint despite increasing concerns from residents and visible deterioration along the coastline.
“We cannot allow Seapoint and the wider Termonfeckin coastline to face unmanaged, increasingly frequent flooding,” she said. “Climate change is amplifying the vulnerability of this area. We need decisive action now.”
Deputy Nash added that although the OPW is currently reviewing the criteria for the Minor Works Scheme, this should not delay engagement on urgent local problems. Updated criteria will issue to councils in the coming weeks, and both representatives urged Louth County Council to be prepared to act once the revised guidelines arrive.
They also welcomed confirmation that Scheme Viability Reviews for Annagassan and Termonfeckin have been completed, identifying potentially viable Flood Relief Schemes. These projects are expected to proceed as part of the OPW’s second tranche of national flood projects.
“Recognising long-term solutions is one thing, but residents need to see real progress,” Deputy Nash said. “We will continue pressing for immediate steps to protect homes, amenities, and the natural coastline.”
Mayor Hall and Deputy Nash said they will keep the pressure on until a clear, funded plan is in place to safeguard Seapoint and the surrounding area.
