New figures from the Office of Public Works show that Waterford received just €240,000 in flood relief project spending between 2020 and 2025.
The data places the county 23rd out of 24 nationwide.
Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane obtained the figures and said they expose a serious failure to invest in flood protection for Waterford saying:
“These figures confirm what people in Waterford already know, our county has been effectively abandoned when it comes to flood relief investment.
Other counties received vastly higher funding over the same period. Cork secured more than €114 million, while Limerick received €37 million and Galway €13 million. Kilkenny received €4 million.
Communities Remain Exposed to Flooding
The figures come as areas across Waterford and the South East have experienced significant flooding in recent days, due to persistent heavy rain.
Deputy Cullinane said the lack of investment leaves towns and villages exposed year after year.
Saying several communities across the county still have no flood relief schemes in place, despite known risks, saying:
“There has been no flood relief funding for Passage East, Tallow or for many other towns and villages right across Waterford that have experienced flooding or remain at risk. People in these communities are being left to fend for themselves.”
No Pipeline of Major Flood Works
Flood relief projects typically run over several years.
Cullinane said the figures show Waterford has no meaningful pipeline of major flood protection works.
He said this situation reflects political decisions rather than oversight.
He called on Government and the OPW to explain why Waterford continues to lag so far behind other counties.
Fresh Flooding Risks as Heavy Rain Continues
The funding concerns come as further heavy rain and showers continue nationwide today.
Met Éireann has advised of a risk of flooding in Waterford over the coming days due to persistent rainfall.
The forecaster says spells of heavy and persistent rainfall will continue throughout the week, particularly in southern and eastern counties.
Flooding is likely due to a combination of already saturated ground, high river levels and high tides.
Forecaster with Met Eireann, Rebecca Ryan, said Ireland has recorded far more rainfall than normal for this time of year.
Emergency Planning Under Review
Government Ministers met with the National Emergency Coordination Group yesterday.
The group reviewed weather warning systems and discussed recent flooding along the eastern and southern coasts.
The NECG advised people to plan for travel disruption and allow extra time for journeys.
As weather risks continue, pressure is growing for long-term flood protection measures in Waterford.
Cullinane said communities cannot wait indefinitely while other counties receive tens of millions in funding.
Adding that Waterford needs fair treatment and sustained investment to protect homes, businesses, and infrastructure from future flooding.
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