Limerick City and County Council has today expressed its disappointment with comments made by Waterways Ireland in respect of the serious flooding which occurred in Corbally on Saturday night.
“Limerick City and County Council wishes to point out that Waterways Ireland is the authority solely responsible for the management and maintenance of the Park Canal.
“The Council responded to reports on Saturday evening that the canal was full and over-topping. Attempts were made by the Council Engineer on site to open the gates with the keys that were left with the Authority. The gates failed to respond and contact was immediately made with Waterways Ireland. As Waterways Ireland were not immediately available attempts were made by Council Engineers and the Fire Service to open the canal gates. The Council deployed an excavator to prise the canal gates open, an action that subsequently resulted in a lowering of water levels and the gradual alleviation of flooding in the area.”
“Limerick City and County Council is scheduled to meet with Waterways Ireland during Tuesday. To avoid any future repeat incidents, the Council will be requesting that Waterways Ireland immediately review its management and operation of the Park Canal and also publicly outline its plans so as to reassure residents and businesses in the area affected by flooding.”
