The ICMSA has criticised the “plethora” of flood agencies who “jealously guard their own positions” and say that a Single National Waterways Authority needs to be introduced urgently.

President of the ICMSA Pat McCormack said that the people who suffered the most from a lack of adequate planning were farmers and people living along the river who deserved better from the authorities.

Timely fashion

He said the number of agencies involved in flood prevention in the Shannon region meant that it was impossible for a response to be given in a “timely fashion”.

McCormack continued by saying that a Single Waterways Authority should be made a priority by any incoming government.