Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The first paragraph relates to the ongoing concerns about water levels on the Shannon. The OPW facilitated a briefing by Jacobs Engineering to the Irish Farmers Association, IFA, on 24 October, which members will recall, and to the joint Oireachtas committee on 28 November regarding the report prepared by the committee reviewing the operating regulations and procedures of the control structures along the River Shannon with the purpose of identifying potential improvements with respect to flood risk management that could be introduced in the short term.

Relevant to Mr. Parlon's query, it was agreed arising from those consultations that the OPW would explore with the ESB and Waterways Ireland the possibility of conducting a water level monitoring exercise involving the controlled raising and lowering of weir boards, subject to favourable hydrological conditions. This was a strong wish among the farmers involved. I will supply our guests with a copy before they go. They do not need to make notes.

The results of such an exercise would inform consideration by the ESB and Waterways Ireland of a possible voluntary change to the management regime at Athlone weir. The aim would be to investigate the feasibility of a slightly lower starting level in Lough Ree in spring, with a possibility of reducing the risk of early summer flooding. In January of this year, the OPW met the ESB and Waterways Ireland to discuss the matter and review the scheduling of such an exercise. It was agreed to involve Jacobs Engineering to advance the water monitoring proposal that is to take place shortly, but this cannot be done unless conditions are favourable. The question of responsibility for river maintenance is also being examined. Something is being done. This issue has not been forgotten. The pressure is being maintained.

I will offer an important clarification. Never let it be said that the truth should not get in the way of a good story.

I heard Deputy Luke 'Ming' Flanagan say that the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, had been bumped into attending a meeting. Any of the meetings that were scheduled were sought through official channels and there was no question of anybody being bumped into it.