The Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council has this week informed elected members that there is no viable pumping solution to reduce rising water levels at Lough Funshinagh.
In an email sent to local councillors on Tuesday, Mr. Cummins said he wanted to correct any false hope there may be regarding such a solution.
Part of the email read: ‘From a hydraulics perspective, in terms of sheer volume, lift and distance, together with logistical, operational, environmental, risk assessment, and other considerations, pumping is not an option’.
He said that due to the lake’s designation as a Special Area of Conservation, consideration would also have to be given to maintaining the ‘natural structure and functioning of the habitat’.
Mr. Cummins added: ‘I appreciate that this is somewhat unpalatable and extremely difficult for the local community and I want to assure you that we will continue to do everything we can to keep flood waters from people’s homes’.
Local Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has, however, called on the local authority to provide a short-term solution in order to help local families.
She said: “Roscommon County Council have now confirmed to all Oireachtas members that the piping initiative to remove the rising water, which was put forward by a number of people, including the local action committee, will not happen. I had called for this last week when I raised the matter with the Taoiseach.
“So, I would ask the Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, what is the alternative? What is the short-term solution for families who are being forced out of their home?”
