Following the recent flooding along the river Shannon, the Government has been keeping the situation under review and has undertaken, where necessary, to bring forward appropriate measures. There are, however, no immediate plans to introduce a compensation package in respect of those affected by the flooding.
In relation to the proposal for the establishment of a statutory Shannon authority, I am conscious of the range of agencies with interests in and responsibilities for the river. As the Deputy is aware, the Shannon River Council Bill, 1998, has just passed Second Stage in Seanad Éireann and is about to go to Committee Stage. Any decision to establish a Shannon authority on a legislative basis to oversee the management and control of water in the Shannon catchment will be done in the context of the Bill.
I would point out that there is a proposed EU framework directive on water policy which will require that all aspects of water management be addressed on an integrated basis in relation to river basins. When the directive has been adopted it will be necessary to draw up comprehensive water management plans and put arrangements in place in relation to the co-ordination of all aspects of water management. These plans will, in relation to the management of water resources, include measures to relieve the effects of flood and drought.
