Roscommon County Council is seeking a major intervention from the Government on the embattled Lough Funshinagh Flood relief scheme.
A letter presented to local councillors at this month's council meeting received widespread support from representatives.
The council has also called on the Government to cover the significant legal bill facing the council following high court action by an environmental group over the works.
The letter signed by the director of services and the County cathoirleach calls on the OPW Minister, Patrick O'Donavan, to intervene on behalf of the council to progress both the stalled works and any future emergency plans.
The local authority has requested government repeal the lake's designation as a turlough and a European Habitat site, under the argument that the lake does not fit the characteristics of a turlough.
They also want planning regulations amended and clarity given on the local government works act that would allow works to be conducted to save homes along the lake.
They argue that these clarifications along with formal guidance would help the council respond to future emergency works.
Addressing the council at this month's meeting, Chief Executive Eugene Cummins said the local authority will be significantly out of pocket due to the costs of the legal action from the Friends of the Irish Environment.
He's urged Government to progress reform of judicial reviews and legal cost risks.
The chief executive told councillors that he is hopeful that the government will aid the council in paying the legal costs.
The letter received unanimous support from councillors at this weeks meeting.]
