Taoiseach and OPW Minister welcome An Bord Pleanála approval for pumping solution at Lough Funshinagh

Taoiseach Simon Harris and the Minister of State at the Office of Public Works (OPW), Kieran O’Donnell, have welcomed An Bord Pleanála’s decision to approve Roscommon County Council’s application for a temporary pumping solution at Lough Funshinagh.

This interim flood relief scheme will involve pumping water from Lough Funshinagh and discharging it to the Cross River, located within the townland of Carrick in County Roscommon.

The proposal will involve 2.5 kms of piping bringing excess water from the lake, through the Curraghboy area, to the Cross River. The pipes will be on the surface of the land and the pumping will be controlled to ensure that no issues arise downstream.

Welcoming the decision, the Taoiseach said: “Today’s news is very welcome. I have met with a number of residents who have been affected by the flooding at Lough Funshinagh and saw first-hand the situation homeowners were dealing with.

“I want to thank OPW Minister Kieran O’Donnell, his officials and Roscommon County Council for driving forward in finding a solution for the families involved. We will continue to work with the OPW and Roscommon County Council to ensure these works are done quickly.”

Minister O’Donnell, in welcoming this approval, said: “Having met with local residents of Lough Funshinagh and elected representatives in Roscommon on many occasions since taking office, I know at first-hand what this decision will mean for the community.

“I look forward to meeting with them next week to provide an update on this approval and its delivery. I along with my OPW officials will be engaging with Roscommon County Council to ensure delivery of the interim flood relief scheme as quickly as possible together with progressing the permanent scheme,” said the OPW Minister.

Mark Keaveney, Director of Services with Roscommon County Council, said: "Roscommon County Council warmly welcomes today’s decision from An Bord Pleanála granting planning approval for the interim flood relief scheme for Lough Funshinagh. This critical approval paves the way for us to provide much-needed relief to properties affected by flooding in the vicinity.

"We acknowledge the collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders involved, especially the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Minister of State for the OPW, Kieran O’Donnell, whose focus and support have been instrumental in progressing this scheme. Roscommon County Council will now commence the implementation phase of the project in accordance with the conditions of the decision.

"In parallel, the council continues to work towards a consent application for the permanent solution to address the many challenges surrounding Lough Funshinagh," he said.