§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture expects to be in a position to inform the residents of the Manse Road area of Newtownards, County Down about the result of the Department's consideration of long-term measures to prevent a recurrence of the recent flooding in the area.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe Department of Agriculture is currently investigating a route for a diversion scheme which appears to be feasible. Progress will be explained to the residents at a meeting arranged for Monday 22 December.
§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what temporary measures are proposed by the Department of Agriculture as a result of the recent flooding at Manse Road, Newtownards, pending the provision of a permanent solution to the problem.
§ Mr. Giles ShawI am advised that there are no feasible short-term measures which can be taken to reduce the likelihood of flooding at Manse Road, Newtownards. The Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland will continue to closely monitor the situation particularly at times of heavy rain.