A far greater degree of clarity is required around when the strategic programme for River Shannon “pinch points” will start, according to independent TD Carol Nolan.
The Laois Offaly TD was referring to a programme for the maintenance and removal of constrictions or “pinch points” on the bed of the River Shannon at the Callows region between Athlone and Meelick Weir – and when this will commence.
Deputy Nolan, a member of the Rural Independent Group, was speaking during the group’s Dáil motion on the impact of drainage and flooding policies in rural Ireland:
“Our motion provided a comprehensive set of proposals that government could adopt with respect to the massive problems being created for communities by repeat flooding events and poor river drainage policies.
It does not appear however that the government is prepared to accept what we have put forward but has chosen instead to continue along the same path that previous governments adopted.
During the debate, deputy Nolan called on the Minister of State at the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, to “provide an update on the work being developed to address the pinch point issues at the Callows region and at Meelick Weir”.
“The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform has already confirmed to me that progression of these works will be subject to the full environmental assessments and planning consent that are required before they can proceed.
“Unfortunately, however, all we know at this point is that Waterways Ireland has advised government that it has commenced work on advancing the various interventions for these works with implementation “expected to commence in 2021”, the TD said.
“This kind of indefinite language will do little to inspire confidence in the farmers, landowners and households who continue to be affected by flooding along various parts of the Shannon river,” concluded deputy Nolan.