Scheme bids to curb river flood risk

A PILOT scheme to help relieve summer flooding along the Shannon Callows in the West of Ireland is to be examined.

Tom Parlon, Minister responsible for the Office of Public Works (OPW), met with representatives of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and Birdwatch Ireland on the site.

The floods damage valuable meadowlands with losses to farmers, and also damages fauna and wildlife. Just 17 male corncrake were observed in the Callows this year following floods in May.

Works proposed would involve cutting trees and other vegetation along the riverbank, which impedes water flow in the river.

The scheme would also involve removing silt from the bed of the river.

OPW engineers are to carry out a survey on a number of aspects including the possibility of flooding downstream.

It will be necessary to carry out an Environmental Impact Study in conjunction with Birdwatch Ireland.

“My office has undertaken to explore the feasibility of a pilot scheme to attempt to alleviate the problem of summer flooding,” said Mr Parlon.

“If there is agreement amongst all of the parties involved, particularly Birdwatch Ireland and the IFA, I am confident that a solution to this issue will be found,” he added.

Mr Parlon said a recently agreed and generous Callows compensation scheme demonstrated that the Government is committed to assisting farmers affected by flooding and ensuring that the unique environment along the river Shannon is protected.