Ward: 'Government must act now on flood defences for Finn Valley'

Deputy Charles Ward has delivered a powerful speech in Dáil Éireann, supporting Sinn Féin’s motion on flood defences, highlighting the urgent need for action for communities in the Finn Valley, including Ballybofey and Stranorlar.

Deputy Ward of the 100% Redress Party reminded the House that this area has endured recurring, catastrophic flooding over decades, including major events in 2015 and again in 2020, with homes, businesses, roads, schools, and essential infrastructure repeatedly inundated.

These floods have caused deep economic loss, trauma, and displacement, creating a pattern of risk that cannot be ignored.

READ NEXT: 'Ongoing cuts impact road safety, flooding risk and the condition of local roads'

Drawing on official Oireachtas records, Deputy Ward noted that while the Ballybofey-Stranorlar flood relief scheme remains in design and planning phases, with actual construction not expected until 2027 at the earliest, residents today remain exposed to serious flood risk. The delays highlight a lack of urgency and political will that leaves communities waiting for the protection they urgently need now.

Deputy Ward credited Councillor Gary Doherty of Sinn Féin for his sustained, local advocacy for stronger defences and pointed to the physical devastation and emotional toll on local people. He emphasised that funding alone is not enough — interim measures to reduce risk must be rolled out immediately while long-term defences are completed.

Deputy Ward also signalled that he will raise the ongoing flooding challenge facing Raphoe later this week during Questions to the Minister, further underscoring his commitment to advocating for all communities in Donegal affected by flood risk.

“Communities in the Finn Valley have lived with the threat and reality of flooding for too long,” Deputy Ward said. “The Government must turn plans into delivery and act with the urgency local people deserve. Flood protection cannot wait.”