Relief measures may not be enough to prevent flooding
The site of the O'Meara home, which was demolished. Pic. Gerard O'Loughlin
Fears for flooding at Lough Funshinagh in South Roscommon, given the level of rainfall in recent weeks, have been expressed by Roscommon County Council.
In a statement on Wednesday afternoon Roscommon County Council said that it was fully committed to finding a solution to the flooding risk at Lough Funshinagh, but warned that due to climate change and unprecedented amounts of rainfall, the measures it was taking may no longer be adequate.
The local authority said that the water levels at the South Roscommon lake were "extremely high for this time of year”.
“This is especially concerning when considering that peak levels are typically seen in early spring which is still several months away,” it said.
Due to the High Court challenge, the council said that flood relief works could not be be completed and no new works could be undertaken.
The council said it was fully committed to providing whatever flood protection measures could be provided and was in regular communication with local residents and public representatives.
“However and unfortunately, because of the court order, such measures are limited to localised flood defences and pumping in the immediate vicinity of the affected properties,” the council said.
“These measures have been relatively effective so far this winter. However, there is a growing concern that as levels continue to rise due to climate change and unprecedented amounts of rainfall, we may reach a point at which such measures will no longer be adequate.”
The council said it was continuing to work in partnership with the OPW to identify an acceptable long-term solution for Lough Funshinagh. The hydro-ecological field studies required to support any such solution are under way and should be completed before the end of 2024.
“While this progress towards a longer term solution is positive, Roscommon County Council is ever-mindful of the ongoing and immediate challenges facing local residents and the wider community,” the statement concluded.
