Works will reduce Shannon water level by up to 18 inches

Government funding of €6m will result in the lowering of Shannon water levels by between one and 1.5 feet south of Athlone, a Government Minister has predicted.
Local Minister Denis Naughten this weekend  confirmed Government funding of €6million will be invested to remove 18 pinch points on the River Shannon.

Minister Naughten also announced that Meelick Weir just north of Lough Derg will be removed.  

“This investment, which is being spearheaded by Minister Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, is the most significant work to take place on the River Shannon since the foundation of the State. I have been delighted through the agencies of my Department to assist with this work,” added Naughten.

“This investment will have a dramatic impact on the potential for flooding in the Shannon Callows south of Athlone with a likely drop in river levels of between 1 and 1.5 foot. This will be of major comfort and benefit to the families and communities in Shannon Callows, while improving rates of wading birds that nest in Callows as well as supporting agriculture and tourism,” added Naughten.

“On foot of my representations to Minister Boxer Moran funding will be provided for major cleaning works of tributaries of the Shannon which will in turn lead to the resolution of long standing flood concerns.”

“Works will get underway next Spring as soon as water levels allow with a four- year commitment to funding,” concluded Minister Naughten.