The interim flood relief system is set to be switched on today (Friday, March 28) to pump water from Lough Funshinagh, Co. Roscommon.

The temporary solution will allow for water to be discharged to the Cross River, within the townland of Carrick in Co. Roscommon.

A total of 2.5km of piping is being used to bring excess water from the lake through Curraghboy and into the river.

Planning permission was granted by An Bord Pleanála in January. The pipes have been placed on the surface of the land and the pumping will be controlled to ensure that no issues arise downstream.

Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran will turn on the interim pumping solution at Lough Funshinagh this afternoon.

Meanwhile, the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) flooding project team chair Brendan Golden has welcomed the activation, describing it as "a major step in the right direction".

Golden said that the "importance of delivering a long-term, permanent solution" is a "crucial" step to ensuring success.

“It is extremely important to deliver a lasting permanent solution. While this temporary measure will provide some relief, a sustainable long-term strategy is needed to protect farm families and the communities,” he said.

The wait for a resolution has led to flooded fields, homes and farm buildings, causing stress and anxiety for the community, with many having to evacuate homes last year.

The council will continue to work towards an application for a permanent solution to address the flooding.

Both Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister of State at the OPW Kieran O’Donnell welcomed the approved application after meeting homeowners affected by the flooding.