The new Chief Executive of Roscommon County has assured residents around Lough Funshinagh the local authority has not abandoned them.
Speaking following his appointment to the role this week, Shane Tiernan says that the council is still working on a solution to flooding around the now infamous lake.
Locals have been left with an uncertain future after attempts by Roscommon Council to build an overflow pipe were blocked in the courts by an environmental group.
The new Chief executive has been in the role in an interim capacity since the resignation of Eugene Cummins last September.
Speaking to Shannonside Northern Sound News today, Mr Tiernan says that work is still ongoing to arrive at a mutually accepted solution.
He says Roscommon County Council is engaging with a number of government and environmental groups in order to find a long term solution for residents.
"That is a multi-year project. We have started. It could be 2-5 years before we have success. I know that's no comfort to those living in the area but we'll assure them of our solidarity in between in terms of trying to protect them and at this point we're in the lap of the gods with regard to where the weather will be. All we can do is continue to try to protect homes with the means we've had here should the waters rise. I know that's cold comfort to those living there, but the local authority will do what it can in the short-term and in the long-term".
