The OPW Minister says it's a miracle that people didn't drown in their beds in Cork during intense flooding incidents that hit the city and county in recent years.
Minister Patrick O'Donovan says the danger of flooding in Cork city causes him the greatest level of concern.
The Minister was speaking about the imminent threat that climate change poses to the country at the Be Winter Ready campaign launch, where Met Éireann revealed that this year it's focusing on flooding as these weather events are becoming more regular.
A number of flood warnings were issued for Cork in the last couple of weeks as Cork was hit with a deluge of rain which led to spot flooding in low lying city streets and in parts of Mallow.
So far nationally, 51 flood relief schemes have been completed protecting 11,900 properties.
Speaking at the Be Winter Ready event the OPW Minister says while the Govenment cannot eliminate the risk of flooding. it is investing heavily in protecting people and properties identified at significant risk:
"Flooding is not a new risk for Ireland, but it is a risk that will increase as the impact of climate change becomes more apparent and this year's team this year's main focus is around flooding. and Ireland has experienced a number of severe weather events in recent times, including those that have recently caused flooding in some parts of the country. Flooding can have a significant impact on people living and working in the affected areas. And essential services can be disrupted and property and possessions can be damaged or lost."
