Mullooly calls for overhaul of outdated River Shannon laws amid worsening floods

Midlands–North-West MEP Ciaran Mullooly has called for a comprehensive overhaul of legislation governing the management of the River Shannon, warning that outdated laws are leaving communities increasingly vulnerable to flooding.

Mullooly said the existing framework — much of which dates back over a century — is “no longer fit for purpose” as climate change, silt build-up, and unmanaged pinch points cause more frequent and severe flooding events along Ireland’s longest river.

“Communities along the Shannon are facing floods that are getting worse, not better,” Mullooly said. “We need modern legislation that allows for active management of the river, proper maintenance, and swift action to address blockages and pinch points before they devastate homes, farms, and livelihoods.”

His comments follow renewed calls from local farmers and landowners for urgent action, as many say rising water levels and recurring floods are destroying farmland and threatening rural life. Mullooly said a new approach must bring together all agencies involved — from local authorities to Waterways Ireland — under a single, updated legal framework.

“The Shannon is one of Ireland’s most important natural resources, but the laws managing it belong to another era,” he added. “A comprehensive review is the only way forward if we’re serious about flood prevention and protecting the communities who live and work along its banks.”

The call comes as flooding issues have dominated local debates in recent weeks, with concerns mounting about the long-term viability of farmland and infrastructure in the Shannon catchment if decisive action is not taken.

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