Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

I agree with Senator Daly's point on addressing the problem of flooding in the River Shannon basin. I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the Shannon river council report early in the new year. There are major difficulties and many bodies involved in the water levels on the River Shannon. It is argued that a certain water level is needed for boating purposes. The level must be changed from October until March. Water levels downstream must be lowered to enable water to flow into the lakes. It would not be useful to open Ardnacrusha as it would flood Limerick.

Many of my neighbours have been flooded out of their homes. The main street of Shannon Harbour, a lovely village close to my home town of Banagher, is under at least eight inches of water and many houses are close to being flooded. This is a serious matter and a debate could help ensure that those with responsibility for water levels on the River Shannon who live in areas which are not affected by flooding will take action to address flooding.

I concur with Senators Daly and Hanafin on the serious problem with beef exports to Russia. If beef prices fall in the coming months it will have a detrimental effect on farmers.