Eamon Scanlon (Sligo-Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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85. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if water levels in Lough Allen are to be reduced again due to flooding concerns; if an environmental impact study has been undertaken for this plan for Lough Allen basin; if not, when it is expected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42661/18]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The Shannon Flood Risk State Agency Co-ordination Working Group was established in early 2016 by the Government to enhance ongoing co-operation of all State agencies involved with the River Shannon and to add value to the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme.

The Group took a decision in October 2016 to trial the lowering of the lake levels on Lough Allen, within the existing statutory framework, during the Winter 2016/2017 to help mitigate potential flood risk. A protocol was finalised between ESB, Waterways Ireland and the OPW to lower the late Autumn and Winter minimum lake levels in Lough Allen by approximately 0.7 metres with the first reduction implemented in October 2016. This protocol was operated for a second time during the Winter of 2017/18. At its meeting in May 2018, the Group agreed to continue for a third year of the trial. The ESB has commenced a process of full environmental screening to help inform any decision to extend the pilot beyond a three year term. It has also commissioned a review of the past 20 or so years to inform the management of levels in Lough Allen.