Scepticism over Enniscorthy flood relief scheme despite project manager’s assurances – ‘someone could object because there’s a snail in the river’

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

Having previously been thwarted by the freshwater pearl mussel Councillor Jackser Owens could be forgiven for thinking the long-mooted flood relief scheme for Enniscorthy may never get over the line. However, at the ripe old age of 71, the independent councillor has come to the conclusion that he will not see the scheme in his lifetime despite reports to the contrary.

At the July meeting of the Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD), project engineer Larry McHale informed councillors that the scheme was progressing as intended and that the design options were currently being assessed for consultation.

Public consultation on the preferred option for Phase One of the works is scheduled to take place in Q4 2025 with an application for planning approval expected be submitted in Q2 2026. Phase One will include the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre.

However, with the last planning application rejected due to the presence of the freshwater pearl mussel in the River Slaney, Cllr Owens couldn’t hide his scepticism.

“There’s nothing to say there won’t be further environmental objections to this again,” he said. “You could work on for it years without any objections and then someone could object because there’s a snail in the river. Will I see a flood relief scheme in Enniscorthy before I die? I don’t think I will.”

Now charged with maintaining morale as well as overseeing the flood relief scheme, Mr McHale did his best to lift Cllr Owens’ spirits.

“The councillors here and Wexford County Council (WCC) have put huge effort into this scheme, we managed to get the minister down here in April and we have the backing of the Office of Public Works (OPW),” he said. “We’re moving on with Phase One and we’re moving ahead with the scheme. There has to be a positive message coming out of here that everyone is working to get this scheme done.”

“It was this council’s members who brought the minister down here,” grumbled an unconvinced Cllr Owens.