The problem of flooding in the Shannon Basin is of long standing and has been the subject of many reports and investigations over the years. These reports all highlight the complexity of the problem in technical terms.
Flooding occurs because the channel is incapable of adequately conveying the large volumes of water involved. The problem can be rectified only by carrying out large-scale civil engineering works which would involve substantial deepening and widening of the channel at very considerable cost. There are no plans at present to carry out such a scheme of works.
The removal of silt from the river is undertaken as required by the Commissioners of Public Works but this has no significant effect on the flow regime of the river.
The establishment of a Shannon Authority has been the subject of debate for some time. There are so many interests involved in this vast natural waterway that the River Shannon Forum was set up in October 1988, to serve as a platform for discussion among these interests. The forum discharges a useful function in promoting co-operation and understanding on an informal basis.
