Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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75. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if measures were taken at Athlone Weir in County Westmeath in advance of the recent heavy rains to reduce the potential impact of flooding on the Shannon callows; the dates and actions taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19044/15]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that my Department has no role in relation to the management of the sluices at Athlone Weir.

I understand that this is a matter for Waterways Ireland and the ESB.  Waterways Ireland is responsible for navigation on the inland waterways system. On the Shannon Navigation and the southern portion of the Shannon-Erne Waterway, Waterways Ireland works in co-operation with the ESB to manage water levels. Waterways Ireland manages the levels for navigation while ESB manages levels in relation to the production of electricity.

The ESB controls the water levels on Loughs Derg, Ree and Allen in accordance with Regulations and Guidelines for the control of the River Shannon.  Measures taken at Athlone Weir to reduce the potential impact of flooding on the Shannon callows is a matter for the ESB which is responsible for the management of sluices at Athlone.