Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the steps being taken to address flood risks within the Shannon basin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51425/12]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The River Shannon Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) project is the core strategy for addressing flood risk in the Shannon Basin.

The Shannon CFRAM involves an extensive surveying and modelling exercise which is underway at present and it will look at all options for dealing with areas of significant flood risk. The objective of this exercise is to ensure that all flood risk factors are identified and managed in a coordinated way. At the end of the CFRAM process, a flood risk management plan for the Shannon catchment will be available which will set out the analysis of the flood risk on the Shannon and recommended options for managing that risk.

In advance of the completion of the CFRAM work, I can assure the Deputy that it is my intention that constructive dialogue continues with all the main stakeholders. In this regard presentations have been made recently to the Irish Farmers' Association and to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht on the report by Jacobs Engineering on the River Shannon Level Operation Review. The engagement arising from those briefings forms a valuable contribution to the stakeholder and information-gathering aspects of the CFRAM Study.

I am very much aware of the difficulties caused by flooding on the Shannon. I am confident however, that progress can be made towards achieving a balanced and fair solution where the water in the Shannon and its lakes is maintained at levels consistent with the operational needs of navigation, power generation and the welfare of those living directly adjacent to the main river channel.