Taoiseach and Minister O’Donnell welcome the decision of An Bord Pleanála for Temporary Pumping Solution at Lough Funshinagh

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister of State at the Office of Public Works, Kieran O’Donnell, today welcomed the decision of An Bord Pleanála to approve the application by Roscommon County Council for the development of an interim flood relief scheme to pump water from Lough Funshinagh and to discharge the water to the Cross River, within the townland of Carrick in County Roscommon.

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.”

Mark Keaveney, Roscommon Co Co 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 surround Lough Funshinagh."