To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on interim measures to address the risk of flooding in Downpatrick.

Work is ongoing to successfully establish a RCRG group for Downpatrick. Senior DfI officials met the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group in 2025 and provided an update on the Downpatrick Feasibility Study, as well as outlining how the Department continues to manage flood risk in Downpatrick through its inspection and maintenance regimes and storm preparedness arrangements.

During periods of severe weather, my Department implements well established procedures to monitor conditions in the Downpatrick area, including the Quoile River and its associated drainage systems. Engineers are routinely monitoring river levels, rainfall forecasts and catchment response, with operational staff deployed locally as required to support the management of water levels. These arrangements help ensure that emerging issues can be identified promptly and that appropriate actions can be taken in line with established flood response plans.

My Department maintains a 24hour Duty Officer and Flooding Officer rota, providing yearround resilience and ensuring that staff are available at all times to coordinate any necessary response. In addition, routine inspection of drainage infrastructure across the Downpatrick area continues to be undertaken to help ensure that the river drainage network remains clear and capable of conveying flows effectively. Where inspections identify a blockage that significantly impedes the free flow of water, or drainage infrastructure is in unsatisfactory condition, the necessary works will be programmed and undertaken as resources and conditions permit.