Q. Is it possible to have a permanent mooring on the canals which could be serviced?

A. At present, under current bye-laws, there is no possibility of having a permanent serviced berth on the Canal system. Berths are on a first come first served basis. We do not provide any services at any berths nor do we permit unauthorised ESB, water or telephone connections. All vessels availing of berths on the Canals are required to purchase and display a valid permit.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General Royal Canal Grand Canal Cruising

Q. Are Waterways Ireland responsible for the maintenance of the towpath along the Royal Canal? There is a part of the towpath between the 9th and 10th lock of the Royal Canal which often floods when the water level is high. This makes it difficult to pass. There is a large housing development along this stretch of the canal. Who is responsible for repairing the towpath at this point?

A. The arrangements at these points are deliberate as they allow removal of water from the canal system when significant volumes are coming down the system and they act as emergency overflows. While it is not ideal that the towpath gets covered in water for the two short stretches when they come into use, it prevents other areas adjacent to the canal from overtopping banks and causing actual flooding incidents. We would suggest, if the water level is high at this point, people contact the Waterways Ireland Dublin office on +353 (0)1 868 0148 and we can talk with the area water controller to see if the level can be lowered or find out the reason as to why it's so high.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Royal Canal

Q. What is the current status of canal works West of Mullingar? Is there a target date for the completion of works and the opening of the navigation?

A. The final phase of the Royal Canal Restoration Programme is currently underway. This phase will see the Royal Canal restored to the Shannon Navigation at Clondra and involves dredging the Navigation, restoring lock chambers and installing lock gates, bog restoration work and a bridge replacement programme for culverted bridges. The Royal Canal is currently navigable between Dublin and Ballybrannigan Harbour just outside Ballymahon in Co Longford. Waterways Ireland are in the process of carrying out restoration works on the Royal Canal between Ballybrannigan Harbour and the Shannon Navigation at Clondara. It is estimated that these works will be completed during 2008.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Royal Canal Navigation

Q. When will the Royal Canal be fully navigable from Dublin to the Shannon?

A. The Royal Canal is currently navigable between Dublin and Ballybrannigan Harbour just outside Ballymahon in Co. Longford. Waterways Ireland are in the process of carrying out restoration works on the Royal Canal between Ballybrannigan Harbour and the Shannon Navigation at Clondara. It is estimated that these works will be completed during 2008.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Royal Canal Navigation

Q. Do you know where can I hire a kayak in the Dublin area? A kayak to hire for few hours or half day alone or with other people Please Thanks for your time!

A. If you contact the Irish Canoe Union, Tel: 00353 (0)1 6251105; email: office@canoe.ie; web: http://www.canoe.ie they may be able to help.
Areas(s) : Activities Royal Canal Grand Canal Canoeing

Q. i am new to the canals and waterways and i am thinking of buying a narrow boat i would like imformation on permanent mooring to rent prices ect is there restrictions on length ect.

A. If you do decide to bring a boat onto the canal system there is a requirement for a permit to be purchased and displayed. An annual combined mooring and passage permit is 126€ and is available for purchase at a number of locations including our offices in Ashtown Gate or Ringsend (Dock Master). You can not moor at the same place on the canals, or within 500 metres of the same place, for more than 5 days without the appropriate permit from the Commissioners. A copy of the Canal Bye-Laws is available to download from our website at http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/NavigationInformation If you intend to enter the Shannon navigation you will be required to register with the Inspectorate – this is free.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Royal Canal Grand Canal Navigation