Minister visits Tipperary to inspect River Suir following concerns over its condition

Minister of State Kevin "Boxer" Moran visited Tipperary last week to inspect sections of the River Suir following concerns raised about the condition of the waterway by Michael Lowry TD.

The visit included stops in Thurles and Holycross, where the minister was shown areas of the river that Deputy Lowry said have suffered from significant overgrowth, debris and restricted water flow.

Describing the River Suir as one of Tipperary's greatest natural assets, Deputy Lowry said the river has long been valued for its scenic beauty, fishing and recreational amenities, attracting anglers from across Ireland and overseas.

However, he said many local people have contacted him in recent months to express concern about the river's condition, with overgrowth and pollution affecting sections of the waterway and increasing fears about flood risk.

According to Deputy Lowry, the situation in Thurles has become particularly severe, with vegetation obscuring parts of the river to such an extent that it is difficult to see the water in places. He also pointed to the stretch of river beside The Source Arts Centre, saying the building was designed to overlook the river but now faces a waterway affected by overgrowth and debris.

During the visit to Holycross, local residents outlined their concerns to the minister, with Deputy Lowry saying many described the current condition of the river as the worst they had seen. He said there are fears the deterioration is having an impact on fishing, one of the area's best-known attractions.

Following the inspection, Deputy Lowry said Minister Moran had committed to supporting an application from Tipperary County Council for works on the River Suir under the Government's enhanced Minor Works Scheme. He said the application would be sanctioned and fully funded once submitted by the local authority.

Deputy Lowry also said he will work with Tipperary County Council officials to help prepare and progress the application.

The visit comes as the Government has expanded the Minor Works Scheme, increasing the maximum funding available for eligible projects from €750,000 to €2 million and broadening support for works aimed at removing river blockages that contribute to flooding.

Deputy Lowry said he intends to continue engaging with Minister Moran, the Office of Public Works and Tipperary County Council to ensure the proposed restoration works are delivered.

The River Suir is one of the county's most important natural amenities, and it is hoped that the proposed works will improve water flow, reduce flood risk and help preserve the river for future generations.