To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the processes followed by Rivers Agency when it is presented with evidence of repeat out of sewer or other flooding on the site of a planning application, which they have not raised in the statutory consultation process.

There is a close liaison between DARD Rivers Agency and DOE Planning Service in the implementation of the Planning Policy Statement on prevention of inappropriate development in flood plains. In its role as a consultee, Rivers Agency provides advice to Planning Service on development proposals that are referred to it. The Agency’s advice is based on the most accurate information held at the time; relating to flood risk potential from watercourses and the sea. Should further information concerning flooding from watercourses or the sea become available to the Agency after the consultation this information is conveyed to Planning Service for consideration if the application has not yet been determined by Planning Service.

Rivers Agency officials are happy to meet the public and their representatives or agents to discuss specific sites in detail as required.