Nicky McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the temporary defence measures, in advance of the completion of the CFRAM study, that will be put in place to manage flooding on the River Shannon; the progress being made between the Office of Public Works and the relevant authorities to deal with the issue of flooding on the River Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9266/13]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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The River Shannon Catchment Flood Risk Assessment & Management Study is being progressed by Jacobs Engineering. This is an in-depth examination of the flood risk in the Shannon catchment and a detailed plan with specific recommendations on measures to manage that risk will be produced by Jacobs.

In advance of the detailed analysis which is being carried out under the Shannon CFRAM Study Jacobs was requested by OPW to prioritise a formal review of 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.

That report and a non-technical summary of the Report - ‘Understanding Water levels on the River Shannon’ was circulated to all public representatives in the region, last Autumn. In addition, a direct briefing on the report was made by Jacobs Engineering in late 2012 to the Irish Farmers’ Association and the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht.

Arising from those consultations, it was agreed, to explore the possibility of carrying out a water level monitoring exercise, involving controlled raising and lowering of weir boards at selected locations, subject to favourable hydrological conditions.

It is important to note that operational control of water flows and levels on the Shannon is a matter for both the ESB and Waterways Ireland. The OPW met with both organisations recently to review the scheduling of such an exercise having regard to existing water management protocols operated by these two bodies for the major storage areas in the Shannon system. It has been agreed to involve the expertise of Jacobs Engineering, in order to advance the water monitoring proposal.

In addition it is open to all local authorities within the Shannon catchment to apply to the OPW for funds under the Minor Works Scheme in respect of any proposals to carry out local flood alleviation works which might be in general accord with the approach of the Shannon CFRAM Study.