Waterways Ireland ePortal

Frequently Asked Questions

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Questions

Q. I recently purchased my first boat and am about to commence using the Shannon navigation. In preparing my boat I asked my mechanic to ensure that the holding tank was in good order. He tells me that many boat owners have gone back to using sea toilets as most of the pump outs are not working satisfactorily. Furthermore the sewage from the town of Carrick is emptying untreated into the river just below the town. Is this true and if so what is the point of trying to be green if thousands of boats are deliberately polluting the river oin a daily basis?

A. Under the Shannon Navigation (Construction of Vessels) (Amendment) Bye-laws, 1994 ‘ a toilet fitted to vessel shall be so constructed and fitted as to prevent polluting matter from being discharged or passing into the navigation.’ Waterways Ireland has said it will take over pumpouts from the Local Authorities on verification that they are in working order; this process has begun. Waterways Ireland has no remit in relation to Carrick sewage.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Environment

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 02 Mon Jul 2007 Asked - 21 Thu Jun 2007

Submitted : 21 Thu Jun 2007

Q. where can I obtain a map showing all the nav., markers on the lower lough?

A. Navigation charts for the Erne System including Lower Lough Erne are available to buy in our headquarters in Enniskillen as well as all regional offices. You can also download our publications listing which includes an order form from our website at http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/PublicationsandCharts and use it to order a chart.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Navigation Cruising

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 03 Tue Jul 2007 Asked - 25 Mon Jun 2007

Submitted : 25 Mon Jun 2007

Q. i am in the process of purchasing a house just of boe island on lower lough erne and would like to build a private jetty there, who do i need to get permission from?

A. You should consult with: 1. Waterways Ireland – Erne Operations office is at 5/7 Belmore St, Enniskillen BT74 6AA. Tel: +44 (0)28 6634 6295; 2. Rivers Agency who manage the Erne Estate (bed, soil and accreted foreshore of the lakes) for the Department of Agriculture (NI). Tel: +44 (0)28 6638 8529; and 3. Planning Service. Tel: +44 (0)28 6634 6555
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General Erne System

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 04 Wed Jul 2007 Asked - 01 Sun Jul 2007

Submitted : 01 Sun Jul 2007

Q. Is it possible to obtain a copy of the register showing the owners of boats on the Erne? Can details of the owner of an individual boat be obtained?

A. Any personal data held on the Registers of Vessels cannot be released to the public under the Data Protection Acts.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 17 Tue Jul 2007 Asked - 09 Mon Jul 2007

Submitted : 09 Mon Jul 2007

Q. I was wondering have the jettys at Kilglass Lake been repaired yet as outlined in your works plan for 2006. If not when do you expect them to be completed.

A. Roscommon County Council currently own the existing jetties at Kilglass. Waterways Ireland has agreed to take over this site later in the year and plans are already being made by Waterways Ireland with the help of the Council, to construct a new marina on the site. Planning Permission is currently being sought for the project. Until the site is handed over to Waterways Ireland, the Council is still responsible for the jetties. The project to provide new jetties will start in September, subject to obtaining Planning Permission, and will be completed early 2007.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland

Answered By - Demo User -- mark.shilliday@biznet-solutions.com
Answered - 19 Mon Jun 2006 Asked - 18 Sun Jun 2006

Submitted : 18 Sun Jun 2006

Q. When was Waterways Ireland founded?

A. Waterways Ireland is the largest of the six North/South Implementation Bodies, and was established by means of an international treaty made on 8 March 1999 between the British and Irish Governments. This treaty was given domestic effect, North and South, by means of the North/South Co-operation (Implementation Bodies) (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, and the British-Irish Agreement Act, 1999 respectively.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 14 Fri Dec 2007 Asked - 11 Tue Dec 2007

Submitted : 11 Tue Dec 2007

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Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General Other Waterways

Answered By - Emer Powell -- emer.powell@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 05 Wed Mar 2008 Asked - 04 Tue Mar 2008

Submitted : 04 Tue Mar 2008

Q. How many miles of Inland water ways does Ireland have?

A. Waterways Ireland is the navigation authority responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of Irelands inland navigable waterways. Waterways Ireland has responsibility for The Barrow Navigation, The Erne System, The Grand Canal, The Lower Bann Navigation, The Royal Canal, The Shannon-Erne Waterway, The Shannon Navigation These amount to approximately 1000km of navigable waterways
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General

Answered By - Emer Powell -- emer.powell@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 03 Thu Apr 2008 Asked - 02 Wed Apr 2008

Submitted : 02 Wed Apr 2008

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

Answered By - Emer Powell -- emer.powell@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 16 Wed Apr 2008 Asked - 10 Thu Apr 2008

Submitted : 10 Thu Apr 2008

Q. How advanced are the plans to connect the Lower Bann and the Erne System via the Ulster canal?

A. Please see following link for information: http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/TheUlsterCanal
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Lower Bann Navigation Erne System

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 10 Wed May 2006 Asked - 04 Thu May 2006

Submitted : 04 Thu May 2006

Q. Hello,What is the water quality like on the Grand Canal these days? More specifically, is it safe to swim in? I'm talking about the downtown portions particularly, at say the bridge at Mount Street Lower, or at the Barge pub. I often thought it would be really good to switm there, but am uncertain about the quality of the water, level of pollution etc. Thanks for any information you can provide.Stephen Kenny

A. The water quality of the Grand Canal is continuously monitored by the Central Fisheries Board on behalf of Waterways Ireland. Water quality in the Grand Canal is generally of a very high quality as confirmed by the Central Fisheries Board. The Grand Canal is fed by a number of sources of very high water quality and every effort is made to ensure these high quality water sources are maintained. It is important to note that the canal system is not a designated Bathing Area and therefore the water quality testing carried out is not specific to the requirements of the Bathing Water regulations. In addition, under Section 38 of the Canals Act, 1986 (Bye-laws), 1988: “No person shall (a) bathe or swim in any lock, Harbour or dock on the canals, except with the permission of the Commissioners;”
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General Activities Grand Canal Safety

Answered By - Emer Powell -- emer.powell@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 23 Mon Jun 2008 Asked - 12 Thu Jun 2008

Submitted : 12 Thu Jun 2008

Q. I have the registration number of a boat and I am trying to locate the owner. Have you any suggestions as to how I may go about this? Thanking you Gary.

A. Hi Gary. You can get in touch with the Inspector of Navigation who will assist you further. His details are as follows: Mr Charles Lawn, Inspector of Navigation, Waterways Ireland, The Docks, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Telephone: +353 09064 94232 Fax: +353 09064 94147
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 29 Fri Sep 2006 Asked - 28 Thu Sep 2006

Submitted : 28 Thu Sep 2006

Q. I am just wondering whether or not I need a fishing permit / license in order to go fishing this Summer? If so where do I get one?

A. To find out relevant information, please contact the Central Fisheries Board. Details may be found at www.cfb.ie The Central Fisheries Board is contracted by Waterways Ireland to look after angling on our behalf.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Angling

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 17 Wed Jan 2007 Asked - 12 Fri Jan 2007

Submitted : 12 Fri Jan 2007

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

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 23 Tue Jan 2007 Asked - 17 Wed Jan 2007

Submitted : 17 Wed Jan 2007

Q. What restrictions are there for landing a seaplane?

A. To answer your query, please contact Charles Lawn, Inspector of Navigation, Waterways Ireland, The Docks, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Telephone: +353 (0)90 6494232
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Navigation

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 24 Wed Jan 2007 Asked - 23 Tue Jan 2007

Submitted : 23 Tue Jan 2007

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

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 02 Fri Feb 2007 Asked - 25 Thu Jan 2007

Submitted : 25 Thu Jan 2007

Q. Who writes your ulster scots? Do you make it up while having a laugh over a cup of tea?

A. We use a recognised Ulster Scots translation service as recommended by the Ulster Scots Agency. For further information on Ulster Scots visit the Ulster Scots Agency's website at http://www.ulsterscotsagency.com/
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 07 Wed Feb 2007 Asked - 05 Mon Feb 2007

Submitted : 05 Mon Feb 2007

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

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 19 Mon Feb 2007 Asked - 16 Fri Feb 2007

Submitted : 16 Fri Feb 2007

Q. Hi Please tell me who is in charge of Regulating of Angling on the Grand Canal around Monasterevin town. Who is implementing those regulations? Thank you

A. Waterways Ireland is responsible for the management, maintenance, restoration and development of the inland navigations principally for recreational purposes. The Central Fisheries Board are under contract to Waterways Ireland to manage Fisheries Development, Weed Management and Water Quality on the Royal Canal, the Grand Canal, the Barrow Navigation and the Shannon Erne Waterway. There is a voluntary scheme of Catch and Release in operation.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Grand Canal Events Angling

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 16 Wed May 2007 Asked - 18 Wed Apr 2007

Submitted : 18 Wed Apr 2007

Q. How late does Albert Lock stay open on a (bank holiday) friday evening? We will be arriving in Carrick-on-Shannon approx 5pm and would like to go south to Dromod for the night.

A. A list of opening times for locks and movable bridges on the Shannon Navigation is available to download from this website on the Shannon Navigation Information webpage at http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/ShannonNavigationInformation There is no variation in opening times for bank holiday weekends, they remain the same opening times as any ordinary weekend during the relevant period.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Cruising

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 16 Wed May 2007 Asked - 26 Thu Apr 2007

Submitted : 26 Thu Apr 2007

Q. Can you please let me know what property does Waterways Ireland own/control around the river shannon? I have looked up some legislation in this matter and cannot find a deinition of waterways ireland property, can you tell me where I could locate same ?

A. The boundaries of jurisdiction of, now, Waterways Ireland on the Shannon were established on foot of the Shannon Act, 1839.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 16 Wed May 2007 Asked - 14 Mon May 2007

Submitted : 14 Mon May 2007

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

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 21 Mon May 2007 Asked - 20 Sun May 2007

Submitted : 20 Sun May 2007

Q. Can you tell me what timber is used to make the lock gates and jetties?

A. The main timber used in Lock Gate and Jetty construction is Ekki Hardwood.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Education

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 17 Wed Jan 2007 Asked - 10 Wed Jan 2007

Submitted : 10 Wed Jan 2007

Q. Can one travel by boat / barge etc from Athy to Limerick.

A. Yes, this is possible. From Athy, you travel up the Grand Canal Barrow line to meet the Grand Canal main line at Lowtown. You then travel along the Grand Canal main line to join the Shannon at Shannon Harbour and continue on down to Limerick.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Grand Canal Barrow Navigation Navigation Cruising

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 21 Tue Nov 2006 Asked - 20 Mon Nov 2006

Submitted : 20 Mon Nov 2006

Q. Having believed the waterways were for everybody to enjoy a few friends and I kayaked along the Blackwater near Kells last week. We were surprised first of all by the amount of barbed wire along various stages of the river from one bank to the other presumably put there by farmers to stop their cattle going swimming getting swept downstream. Secondly we were asked to leave the river where it passed through Headfort Golf Club we weren't trying to play golf just quietly passing through. Are there private stretches of river such as this? And is barbed wire allowed across the path of the river? Any help or advice would be appreciated. Thank you

A. The River Blackwater is not under the remit of Waterways Ireland. Waterways Ireland is responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway systems throughout Ireland, principally for recreational purposes. The waterways under the remit of Waterways Ireland are the Lower Bann Navigation, the Erne System, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the Shannon Navigation, the Barrow Navigation, the Grand Canal and the Royal Canal. For help with your query, you should contact Kells Town Council and area Office, Headfort Place, Kells, Co. Meath Telephone: +353 (0)46 9240076 Fax: +353 (0)46 9249316 / +353 (0)46 9249230 Email: kellstc@meathcoco.ie
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Other Waterways

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 13 Mon Nov 2006 Asked - 11 Sat Nov 2006

Submitted : 11 Sat Nov 2006

Q. Do I have to register a boat before using it on Lough Erne? I see you have an attached form but it does not advise of cost or legal requirement. I did previously own a boat with a registered number (bought as registered already) but I am thinking of buying a new unregistered one. Can you advise requirements please Thanks

A. You have to register your boat before using it on Lough Erne. You can do so by downloading the form from the following URL http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/BoatRegistration and sending it to the Lough Erne Warden. There is no cost to register your boat. If you purchase a boat which is already registered you still need to make us aware about change of ownership. You can do so by contacting the Inspectorate of Navigation, The Docks, Athlone, Co. Westmeath +353 (0)90 6494232 or the Lough Erne Warden, Castle Lane, Portora, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh +44 (0)28 66322836.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Erne System Navigation

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 06 Mon Nov 2006 Asked - 06 Mon Nov 2006

Submitted : 06 Mon Nov 2006

Q. I plan to kayak from Athlone to Killaloe. Is this reasonably flat water? How much current is there? Where can I hire a kayak so I can start my trip near Athlone and take out near Killaloe or Limerick? How many days (12 miles per day) would it take for this trip?

A. Lough Derg can be very rough and by canoe should only be crossed in calm conditions. At this time of year, the current is fast and levels are rising. The Distance for this trip is about 80 km. You should check out the Conoeing Ireland website www.canoe.ie for more information or contact them on +353 (0)1 6251105.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Shannon Navigation Canoeing

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 06 Mon Nov 2006 Asked - 03 Fri Nov 2006

Submitted : 03 Fri Nov 2006

Q. What is the largest size boat that can safely navigate from the sea to Lough Neagh?

A. The largest boat that can safely navigate from the sea to Lough Neagh is of length 35 m , Beam 5.5m, Draft 1.0m, with an Airdraft of 1.5m at High Water in Coleraine and 4.2m at Low Water in Coleraine.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Lower Bann Navigation Navigation

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 02 Mon Oct 2006 Asked - 28 Thu Sep 2006

Submitted : 28 Thu Sep 2006

Q. Hi. I am wondering if you can tell me when access to the slipway at Kilglass lake will be restored? I am a frequent user of the lake and this is the best slip way for launching. Thanks

A. The works to the slipway will be substantially complete before the end of this year and the project is due for completion early next year, in time for the new season. In the interim, the slipway at Dromod is available. If there is a particular access problem, you can get back to us and we will see if there is anything we can do.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Navigation

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 25 Mon Sep 2006 Asked - 20 Wed Sep 2006

Submitted : 20 Wed Sep 2006

Q. Do Waterways Ireland have any responsibility for the Islandbridge to Chapelizod stretch of the River Liffey in Dublin used for recreational rowing purposes? Parts of this section have become blocked by weed and algae blooms. If you do not cover this stretch of the river can you tell me who is responsible?

A. Waterways Ireland are not responsibe for maintenance of the River Liffey. You should contact Dublin City Council on 01 222 2222.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Other Waterways

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 11 Mon Sep 2006 Asked - 11 Mon Sep 2006

Submitted : 11 Mon Sep 2006

Q. A couple of years ago we rented a barge at Graiguenamanagh named "an Bradan" and cruised the Barrow. I would like to rent from this same firm again but I can't locate them. Do you know which firm it might be that has such a barge and how I can contact them? I have a photo of the barge if it helps Thank you Stacia Roesler

A. You most likely rented this boat from Valley Boats in Graiguenamanagh. Unfortunately Valley Boats is no longer in business. Other businesses you could contact include Leisure Afloat and Barrow Line Cruisers. For more details check out www.leisureafloat.ie and www.barrowline.ie
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Barrow Navigation Cruising

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 06 Wed Sep 2006 Asked - 05 Tue Sep 2006

Submitted : 05 Tue Sep 2006

Q. Who if anyone owns the lake in Loughrea Co. Galway?

A. Waterways Ireland do not own Loughrea Lake. You would need to get in touch with the Law Agents in Galway County Council who can hopefully help you out. You can contact Galway County Council on +353 (0)91 509000.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Other Waterways

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 05 Tue Sep 2006 Asked - 05 Tue Sep 2006

Submitted : 05 Tue Sep 2006

Q. My father in law would like to know where you advertise your job vacancies to help maintain the waterways?

A. All our external vacancies are advertised in the local / national press and also on the Waterways Ireland website.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 29 Tue Aug 2006 Asked - 29 Tue Aug 2006

Submitted : 29 Tue Aug 2006

Q. As a regular visitor to the inland waterways my question is " why is the time limit not enforced for docking at public docks in particular the new floating ones at Carrick on Shannon Dromod"This seems at odds with Waterways Ireland rules.

A. The Inspectorate conduct regular patrols of all harbours and record any vessels in contravention of the Shannon Navigation Bye Laws, including those breaking the “5 Day Rule”, the vessel has a sticker with a notice of the Bye –Law Contravention placed on it and a letter sent to the owner. Most responsible owners comply with the bye-laws following this action. In cases where owners do not comply then the vessel may be removed from the navigation. It will be appreciated that at the height of the boating season not all harbours can be visited on a daily basis, however, where there is a problem with a specific vessel and it is brought to the Inspectorate’s notice it will be followed up at that time.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Navigation Cruising

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 25 Fri Aug 2006 Asked - 01 Tue Aug 2006

Submitted : 01 Tue Aug 2006

Q. Is the Grand Canal towpath suitable for cycling?

A. At present, the majority of the towpaths on the Grand and Royal Canals are not suitable for cycling, either because they are too narrow or have a rough terrain, or because cyclists would cause too much danger (from a safety point of view) or inconvenience to other users. Over the next few years, we hope to be able to work with local authorities to install designated surfaced cycleways in the urban / semi urban fringes of Dublin. To that end Waterways Ireland are currently working in conjunction with South Dublin County Council to explore options in the Clondalkin to Lucan stretch of the Grand Canal where local authority lands, adjoining the canal towpath, may be developed as designated surfaced cycleways and the existing towpath developed for walking and fishing.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Grand Canal

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 04 Tue Jul 2006 Asked - 03 Mon Jul 2006

Submitted : 03 Mon Jul 2006

Q. Hi. I would like to know why there is no control of speeds and behaviour on the Lower Bann. Skiers regularly ski right through Portglenone Marina and one of these almost put my child in danger as she was getting into our boat. I have never seen a warden near here. Why not?

A. Issues such as speeding and inappropriate behaviour are addressed by the implementation of bye-laws. There are currently no navigational bye-laws applicable on the Lower Bann Navigation. However Waterways Ireland is currently reviewing and redrafting generic bye-laws across all the navigations under the management of Waterways Ireland. These bye-laws will be issued for public consultation at the end of the year and input from users will be most welcome.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Lower Bann Navigation Cruising Powerboat Sports

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 04 Tue Jul 2006 Asked - 02 Sun Jul 2006

Submitted : 02 Sun Jul 2006

Q. I would like to know if any one else is having problems at all the islands on lower Lough Erne.Almost every jetty has speed boat skiers and jet ski’s coming in at great speed resulting in our cruiser getting rocked about. Sometimes we think it is going to end up on the jetty. Can anything be done about it? It can be quite dangerous especially when we are cooking. They don’t seem to respect the speed laws.

A. There are areas on the Lower Erne governed by speed limits as per the Lough Erne Bye-Laws 1986. Furthermore, the Erne Navigation is patrolled regularly by the Lough Erne Warden. If you wish you can contact the Warden directly, Tel. 00 44 28 66322836
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Erne System Cruising Powerboat Sports

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 29 Thu Jun 2006 Asked - 27 Tue Jun 2006

Submitted : 27 Tue Jun 2006

Q. Where can I find information about water depths over the last three weeks from Lough Derg to Lower Lough Erne?

A. Along the Shannon water level gauges, which are mostly at locks, are read daily. These readings are not scientific and are primarily for internal Waterways Ireland use. We do not have specific information about water depths along the system. If the query is about the level at a specific place we may be able to provide that.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Erne System

Answered By - Aideen Martin -- aideen.martin@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 23 Fri Jun 2006 Asked - 21 Wed Jun 2006

Submitted : 21 Wed Jun 2006

Q. i would like to take groups of kids expedition canoeing on grand canal in kildare. how can i get hold of a lock key? thanks dave

A. Lock keys are available in Waterways Ireland's offices in Tullamore and Ashtown Gate (Dublin) and also in Shannon Harbour. However Waterways Ireland does not encourage canoes to pass through locks. We request that you disembark and walk over locks for safety reasons (turbulence in locks and the requirement to avoid water ingress into canoes). Also, while it is not required that a permit be issued (fees paid) we would request that an application for a permit be completed for purposes of indemnity. The organizer should also have adequate insurance for both personnel on the expedition and third party liability. Bye-Law 38 (q) requires our permission prior to any organized event.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Grand Canal Canoeing

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 15 Thu Jun 2006 Asked - 07 Wed Jun 2006

Submitted : 07 Wed Jun 2006

Q. I am enquiring if there are any plans to reopen the Newry Canal System to Portadown and Lough Neagh.

A. The Newry Canal is not part of Waterways Ireland's remit. This is a matter for the Newry & Mourne Council. Their web address is www.newryandmourne.gov.uk
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Other Waterways

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 07 Wed Jun 2006 Asked - 06 Tue Jun 2006

Submitted : 06 Tue Jun 2006

Q. I have just come back from a fishing holiday on the River Shannon and wonder if you can tell me if the improvements to the jetty's at Victoria Lock have been completed. I am especially interested to know if the new jetty below Victoria Lock will remain unattached to the land or will the new jetty that I saw be extended in some way so that boats could moor and passengers then walk to the lock keeper. Many thanks for your time. Ray

A. The jetty downstream of Victoria Lock will remain unattached to the land. It’s a waiting jetty for boats travelling through Victoria Lock.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 07 Wed Jun 2006 Asked - 25 Thu May 2006

Submitted : 25 Thu May 2006

Q. Hi just wondering what the situation is regarding the harbour extension at GarrKennedy ? Are the moorings available for rent or is it purely for visitor boats ? Thanks Pete

A. Garrykennedy is a public harbour and is available free of charge from 1 Apr until 31 Oct each year. However, you are only allowed to berth in public harbours during this time for a period of 5 consecutive days or a total of 7 days in any one month. Outside of this period i.e 1 Nov until 31 Mar you can berth for the nominal sum of approximately €13.00. per month.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Shannon Navigation Navigation

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 29 Wed Mar 2006 Asked - 08 Wed Mar 2006

Submitted : 08 Wed Mar 2006

Q. Are hovercraft permitted on the Shannon? If so under what conditions?

A. The owner / operator of a hovercraft should contact the Inspector of Navigation prior to placing the craft in the navigation. The telephone number for the Inspector of Navigation is +353 (0) 90 6494232.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland Activities Powerboat Sports

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 28 Tue Feb 2006 Asked - 17 Fri Feb 2006

Submitted : 17 Fri Feb 2006

Q. Hi Can I buy charts for Irish Waterways on-line? I spoke to someone about this at London Boatshow Thanks Lee

A. At the moment you can download our publications list and order form from the website at http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/PublicationsandCharts" title="Publications and Charts">Publications and Charts You can then use this form to order Navigation Charts or any of the other listed publications.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General

Answered By - Ann Marie Kelly -- annmarie.kelly@waterwaysireland.org
Answered - 21 Tue Feb 2006 Asked - 13 Mon Feb 2006

Submitted : 13 Mon Feb 2006

Q. What is Waterways Ireland?

A. Waterways Ireland is a North South Body set up under the British Irish Agreement 1999.
Areas(s) : Waterways Ireland General