Waterways Ireland

Cruising

Charter Boating

Chartering a boat on Ireland's inland waterways is simple. No license is required, no commercial traffic operates, the waterways are a purely leisure experience.

All the waterways where charter boats operate are networked together so you can have a river, lake and canal experience all in the one holiday.

The decision as to which company to travel with is actually a decision about which experience you want most of - the bustle of river life on the Shannon, the tranquility of the island dotted waters of the Erne System, the regular rhythm of the locks of the Shannon Erne Waterway, Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation.

Bat Survey

All Ireland Daubenton's Bat Waterways Survey
Introducing a Pilot Monitoring Protocol in August 2006

A funded partnership by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Republic of Ireland), Environment and Heritage Service (Department of the Environment, Northern Ireland) and Waterways Ireland.

Bats constitute a large portion of the mammalian biodiversity in Ireland. Ten species of bat are known to occur in Ireland and form almost one third of Ireland's land mammal fauna. Due to their reliance on insect populations, specialist feeding behaviour and habitat requirements, they are considered as valuable environmental indicators of the wider countryside (Walsh et al., 2001). Monitoring protocols for bat populations is essential due to the paucity of information on the present distribution of many of Ireland's resident bat species.

The characteristic foraging style of Daubenton's bats makes it relatively easy to identify the species in the field and thus a suitable candidate for large scale volunteer-based surveys. Daubenton's bat is easy to see when foraging because it opportunistically feeds close to water. It forages typically within 30cm of the surface. Here it either trawls for insects from the surface of the water by gaffing them with its large feet or the tail membrane or takes them directly out of the air (aerial hawking). Daubenton's bats can be observed flying continuously back and forth along a regular flight path.

Bat Conservation Ireland is proposing to pilot the Daubenton's Bat Waterway Survey based on the BCT (UK) methodology in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in August 2006. Sampling locations for an All Ireland Daubenton's Bat Waterway Survey will correspond with sites already monitored by the EPA/EHS water quality programmes.

The survey methodology relies on the use of heterodyne bat detectors. Sampling the activity of Daubenton's bats along waterways using a heterodyne bat detector is relatively straight forward. Identifying bats on field surveys with heterodyne bat detectors requires some training and practice. Therefore volunteers will be provided with training prior to surveying. A volunteer pack will provide potential volunteers with information on bats in Ireland, surveying techniques, bat detector usage and model descriptions, importance of monitoring protocols and potential use of information collated from such monitoring protocols.

Volunteers will then follow a prescribed methodology:

● Volunteers will be assigned a random 1km of waterway (existing EPA/EHS water quality monitoring site) that is within 10km of the surveyor's home address.

● Surveyors will undertake a day visit (with landowner's permission) to assess the site for safety. Ten points approximately 100m apart, are marked out along a 1km stretch.

● The surveyors will then revisit the site on two evenings in August. At each of the ten points, the surveyor records Daubenton's bat activity for four minutes with a heterodyne bat detector and torchlight.

● Bat passes are either identified as Daubenton's bat or 'Unsure' Daubenton's bat. Daubenton's bat passes are identified only if the bat is heard and seen skimming the water surface. Bat passes that are heard and sound like Daubenton's but not seen skimming the water maybe another species. Therefore these heard but not seen bats are recorded as 'Unsure' Daubenton's bat passes.

● Volunteers will then fill out Survey Results Sheets and return, along with a map of their 1km transects, to BCIreland for processing.

● Volunteers will receive a report on how their participation contributed to this All Ireland monitoring protocol.

Are YOU interested in volunteering?

Training courses will be organized throughout Ireland which you will be invited to join in. You do not need to have any prior experience in bat detection to participate in this scheme. A heterodyne bat detector is required to undertake this survey and a limited number of detectors will be available through Bat Conservation Ireland for use for this survey.

If you are interested, please register by sending the following details to tinaaughney@eircom.net

Name:

Contact e mail:

Contact phone number:

Home address:

Have you used a bat detector before?

Do you have use of a bat detector?

Details of bat detector experience:

Tina Aughney B.Sc. (Env. Sc.) Ph.D.
Consulting Ecologist

Ulex House, Drumheel, Lisduff,
Virginia, County Cavan.

00353 49 8548679 / 86 4049468

http://www.batconservationireland.org/php/monitoring.php

Plans and Strategy

Information about the Corporate Plans:


Title	Section	Class

Corporate Plan 2002-2004	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Corporate Plan 2005-2007	Corporate Services	Our Organisation

Click on any of the publications above to download.

07 Sponsorship Programme

LAUNCH OF THE WATERWAYS IRELAND SPONSORSHIP PROGRAMME 2007

Waterways Ireland, the North/South Implementation Body responsible for managing, maintaining, developing and restoring the inland navigable waterways throughout the island, announced the launch of the 2007 Sponsorship Programme this week.

Under the Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme, groups, associations and clubs may apply for sponsorship (funding and support) for events which meet the aims of the Programme and take place along the waterways.

The waterways in question 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.

At the launch Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland, spoke of the significance of the Sponsorship Programme.

He said, "This is the third year of the Sponsorship Programme and every year the range and extent of the events taking place on the waterways is growing which is a credit to the event organisers and participants. This year over 80,000 people took part in events sponsored by Waterways Ireland including many community water festivals and a range of water based activities including sailing, rowing and angling competitions. The Sponsorship Programme is an important way of promoting the waterways and attracting people to the waterways which has a knock-on benefit for the local economies."

Further details of the sponsorship programme are available from the Waterways Ireland website at www.waterwaysireland.org or by calling the Marketing and Communications Division at +353 (0)71 9650787 (Carrick on Shannon) or +44 (0)28 66346 232 (Enniskillen), or by emailing info@waterwaysireland.org.

The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 01 February 2007.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 02.11.2006
PR060032

Customer Services

Waterways Ireland is responsible for a diverse range of services to customers from many different backgrounds with many different needs. Waterways Ireland has developed a Customer Service Plan entitled "A Strategy for Enhanced Customer Service" which sets out Waterways Ireland's strong commitment to Quality Service and recognises that our customers are entitled, as of right, to an excellent service delivered in a prompt, courteous and fair manner. To download a copy of the Waterways Ireland Customer Service Charter, please click on the link below.

Customer Service Charter

"A Strategy for Enhanced Customer Service", has been printed in handbook format, and is also available to download below.

Customer Services

Customer Service Charter

"A Strategy for Enhanced Customer Service", has been printed in handbook format, and is also available to download below.

Restoration Works Update

Update on the Royal Canal Restoration

The third and final phase of the Royal Canal Restoration Programme is currently underway on its Western Section. 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. After the closure of the Royal Canal to navigation in 1961, sections of the Canal were filled with pipes and concrete and were built on. To restore the Canal as a waterway, it is necessary to remove these culverts and re-establish the navigation route. The third phase of the bridge replacement Programme involves the following restoration works, which are currently underway or have recently been completed:

- Waterways Ireland completed a new lifting rail bridge and a fixed road bridge with Bord na Mona, to replace two low level fixed crossings over the Canal.

- In the village of Abbeyshrule, the low level culvert which was used to carry the road across the Canal has been removed. The road was realigned to approach the existing masonry arch bridge (Webb's Bridge) which was then re-opened to allow traffic cross the Canal. The removal of this culvert opened up an additional 10km of the Canal and allows navigation of the Canal to Ballybrannigan Harbour (near Ballymahon).

- In Ballymahon, the existing Longford Bridge and the road leading to it was nearly at water level and prevented the passage of boats. A new road bridge was constructed and has been opened for traffic. Work is continuing on ancilliary works along the Canal and this added a further 8km stretch of restored waterway to the Royal Canal.

- At Begnagh, a fully automated lifting bridge has been installed to replace the existing low level culvert. This is the first fully automated lifting bridge of its kind in Ireland and the UK and it opens and closes based on scanning the canal for the movement of boats.

- At Mosstown Bridge, construction is underway for a new fixed bridge. Work started in December 2007 and is due to be completed by the summer of 2008.

- At Lyneen Bridge, design is underway for a fixed bridge which is due to be completed by the end of 2008. The Planning application was submitted to Longford County Council in April 2008 and if approval is granted work will start this summer on its construction.

- At Lock 45 the stonework was rebuilt in sections and restored throughout to its original condition. The gates have also been restored and it is now fully operational.

The Restoration of the Royal Canal will create a triangular route which will enable boats from the Shannon Navigation to travel to Dublin via the Royal Canal, and back to the Shannon via the Grand Canal. In doing so, the Royal Canal will provide new and attractive recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Waterways Ireland held an open meeting in Mullingar on 22 April with relevant organisations based along the Royal Canal and with the canal user groups to discuss the re-opening of the canal in 2009. The meeting, attended by some 40 representatives, was addressed by Martin Dennany with an entertaining and informative presentation by John McKeown. A lively debate and questions and answers session was facilitated by �anna Rowe with significant and substantive progress being made on the framework for the Royal Canal celebrations.

A consultative committee will shortly be formed to co-ordinate the celebrations and we can all look forward to 2009 being the "Royal Year".

Towpath Closure Grand Canal

NOTICE OF TOWPATH CLOSURE

Notice is given that the southern towpath of the Grand Canal from the 3rd Lock at Blackhorse Bridge to the 12th Lock at Lucan Road Bridge will be closed from October 2008 to accommodate works to construct infrastructural ducting and an improved footpath and cycle track.

During this period the southern towpath will not be accessible to the public. Diversion signs for alternative pedestrian routes will be provided. The towpath will remain closed until January 2010.

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience caused by these closures.

For any queries contact Waterways Ireland's Eastern Regional Office on
Tel: +353 (0) 1 868 0148

Round 'O' Floating Jetties

Waterways Ireland Floating Jetties arrive at the Round O

Waterways Ireland is happy to confirm the arrival on-site of floating jetties which form the core part of the expansion to facilities taking place at the Round O. The overall programme will cost �480,000 with the cost of the onshore works, �60,000 contributed by Fermanagh District Council.

The floating jetties, 240 metres in length, will double the previous mooring space available in this sought-after town centre location and will also include secure mooring space for a waterbus. In addition to the 24 berths there will also be additional low freeboard jetties for rowing and canoeing craft.

The site will reopen in March 2009 after the remainder of the works have been completed. This will include landscaping, the planting of reed beds to improve the environment and provide a new home for local wildlife and upgrading the roadway.

The works; designed and commissioned by Waterways Ireland, are being undertaken by Gerald Love Contracts, Drumbroory, Enniskillen.

For Further Information Contact
Waterways Ireland
Press Office Katrina Mc Girr Tel no +353 (0)87 9918412
Senior Engineer Stephen Forrest Tel no +44 (0)79 1959 6487

Update on Ulster Canal

RESTORATION OF THE ULSTER CANAL FROM CLONES TO UPPER LOUGH ERNE

At the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) Plenary meeting in July this year, the Council agreed to proceed with the restoration of the section of the Ulster Canal between Clones and Upper Lough Erne in the light of the Irish Government's offer to cover the full capital costs of the project.

It was also agreed that Waterways Ireland, the North/South Implementation Body, will be responsible for the restoration of this section of the Canal and, following restoration, for its management maintenance and development principally for recreational purposes.

The full capital cost (estimated at €35m/�23.8m) of the project will be met by the Irish Exchequer with annual maintenance costs on the completion of the project, in the order of €300,000/�201,000, to be met by the Northern Ireland Executive and the Irish Government.

At a NSMC Inland Waterways Sectoral meeting in Ballyconnell, Co Cavan in October, Edwin Poots, MLA, Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure and �amon o Cu�v, T.D., Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs agreed that Waterways Ireland should appoint a single entity consortium to design and construct the restoration of the Clones to Upper Lough Erne section of the Ulster Canal.

In addition it was agreed that Waterways Ireland will establish a project team for the day to day management of the project which will report monthly on progress to a Monitoring Committee chaired jointly by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.

At the Ballyconnell meeting, Ministers stressed that good local liaison will be key to the smooth running of the project and noted that Waterways Ireland will engage with all key stakeholders in taking forward the project; and they welcomed Waterway Ireland's intention to put in place a targeted marketing programme during construction to highlight the attractions and uniqueness of the Clones to Upper Lough Erne stretch of the Ulster Canal.

Representatives from Waterways Ireland recently met with groups from Clones including the Clones Erne East Partnership, Clones Regeneration Partnership, Clones Town Council and Clones Development Society, to discuss what had been agreed by the NSMC. Waterways Ireland confirmed that it will appoint a project manager and that it will be a single design and construct contract.

Since the beginning of 2008, Waterways Ireland has appointed an in-house project manager to progress this project to completion. A preliminary design contract is proposed to take this project through the planning phase and a prior information notice for this work has been placed in the European Journal. The construction phase of this project will be a single design and construct contract which will be progressed on completion of the planning phase. Waterways Ireland has commenced advising the landowners along the route of the proposal of the general outline of the proposal and the likely time frame of the various actions.

- Ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 20.12.2007

PR07017

Cavan Canoeing

Located at Carratraw Canoe Centre is the gateway to Inishmore Island at the centre of Lough Oughter waterways. Discover exciting aspects of local geology, archaeology, wildlife, and history in this intriguing area of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. Join us at this beautiful location on the River Erne for a memorable experience. Cavan Canoeing offer kayak/canoe instruction, local nature and historical tours, summer camps, school trips and complete multi day packages for individuals groups, families, and friends.

Location: Cavan Canoeing,Carratraw Canoe Centre, Inishmore, Butlers Bridge, Co Cavan

Email: info@cavancanoeing.com

Website: www.cavancanoeing.com

Phone: +353 (0) 87 2905752

Find Something To Do

For information on attractions, activities, food and drink, events etc please click on the following link Find Something To Do

Shannon-Erne Waterway Planned Works

2009 Capital Projects

Permanent Waterway Patroller Facility at Lock 16, Co. Leitrim (Project Completed)

Construction of a permanent Waterway Patroller Facility at Lock 16 to facilitate all operational and welfare requirements, snagging list left to be completed.

2010 WI Sponsorship Programme

Waterways Ireland may, at its discretion and depending on the availability of funds, provide sponsorship (funding and support) to groups, associations, clubs or other appropriate bodies to assist with events which meet the aims of the Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme and enhance the use of the waterways principally for recreational purposes.

The Sponsorship Programme can not be used to fund or contribute towards capital projects such as acquiring or developing new or existing buildings, infrastructure development or acquiring/maintaining equipment.

The Sponsorship Programme is now open and you can apply by downloading the guidelines and application form below. Please read the Guidelines carefully to ensure that the application form is completed correctly and that the proposed sponsorship event meets the eligibility criteria.

If you have any queries please contact Damien McWeeney by
Email damien.mcweeney@waterwaysireland.org or Tel No +353 (0)71 96 50787

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme is 03 December 2009 at 3pm. Incomplete or late applications cannot be assessed.

2010 Sponsorship Programme - Guidelines for Applicants

2010 Sponsorship Programme - Application Form

Erne System Boat Hire

Cruiser and Barge Hire on the Erne System

A number of the boat hire companies on the Erne System are members of the
Erne Charter Boat Association and can be contacted through its
website www.boat-holidays.info

Aghinver Boat Company
Tel no +44 (0)28 6863 1400
Email info@abcboats.com
Web www.abcboats.com

Carrick Craft
Tel no +44 (0)28 3834 4993
Email sales@carrickcraft.com
Web www.cruise-ireland.com

Carrybridge Boat Company
Tel no +44 (0)28 6638 7034
Email robert_mcclean@btinternet.com

Emerald Star Ltd
Mob no +353 (0)71 962 0234
Email info@emeraldstar.ie
Web www.emeraldstar.ie

Manor House Marine
Tel no +44 (0)28 6862 8100
Email info@manormarine.com
Web www.manormarine.com

How to Access Information

Information included in our Publication Scheme will be routinely available.

How do I Request Information?
Some of the documents listed may be available on the Waterways Ireland website www.waterwaysireland.org and links will be provided, where appropriate, to enable you to obtain them easily. These are electronic documents in, for example, Word or .pdf format, and can be downloaded free of charge. To read .pdf documents you will need Adobe Acrobat, which is free and can be downloaded from here:
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html.

If you do not have Internet access, a single printout of the information contained on our website is available on request from the Waterways Ireland Freedom of Information Officer. You can also obtain additional information about our business by making a request under the Freedom of Information Code of Practise in writing to:

Waterways Ireland Freedom of Information Officer

2 Sligo Road
ENNISKILLEN
Co Fermanagh
BT74 7JY

or by e-mailing us at: information request@waterwaysireland.org

A request for information held by a body should be made in writing or in electronic form. When making a request for information you will need to provide us with a reply address and describe the information you wish us to provide. The description should contain sufficient particulars to enable the information sought to be identified by the taking of reasonable steps. Click here to download a Freedom of Information Request Form

Can I Obtain the Information in Other Formats?
The information detailed in this Scheme is usually available on the Waterways Ireland website and in paper form.

How long will it take ?
An acknowledgement of a request will be issued within ten working days of receipt. (Working days means any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday, or a public / bank holiday observed by Waterways Ireland). A decision on a request for information will generally be issued not later than 20 working days from the date of receipt of the request. However, in the case of a request for a significant volume of information, a decision will be issued not later than 35 working days from the date the request was received. Where Waterways Ireland extends the period of time for a decision from 20 to 35 working days, the applicant will be informed of this not later than 20 working days after the date of receipt of the request.

Charges

Publication Scheme Charges
The individual classes of information indicate where a charge may be levied.
As it is intended that the majority of information contained in the Publication Scheme will be posted on our website, there will be no charge made by us, although you may have to pay any charges made by your Internet Service Provider, personal printing costs, etc. There may be certain publications that will only be available on receipt of payment. Where such charges apply, this is clearly identified against individual documents.

For those without Internet access, a single printout of the information contained on our website is available on request from:
Freedom of Information Officer
Waterways Ireland
2 Sligo Road
ENNISKILLEN
Co Fermanagh
BT74 7JY

or by e-mailing us at: informationrequest@waterwaysireland.org

Copyright

The material available through this Publication Scheme is subject to Waterways Ireland's copyright unless otherwise indicated. If you wish to reproduce Waterways Ireland materials, please contact our Marketing & Communications section on 028 (048) 66346205 / 00353719650787 or email info@waterwaysireland.org for permission. You must undertake to reproduce the information accurately and to ensure that it is not used in a misleading manner. Where any of the copyright items in this Scheme are being re-published or copied to others, you must identify the source of the material and acknowledge the copyright status. Permission to reproduce material does not extend to any material accessed through the Publication Scheme that is the copyright of third parties. You must obtain authorisation to reproduce such material from the copyright holders.

Complaints

We have an obligation to make information available in the manner described within this Scheme. Should we receive any complaints about failure to do so, these will be investigated in the first instance by the Waterways Ireland Freedom of Information Officer who will reply within 15 working days.

If you are not satisfied with this reply, you can write to the Waterways Ireland Internal Reviewer, Waterways Ireland, 2 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 7JY who have responsibility for Freedom of Information within Waterways Ireland. Again you will receive a response within 15 working days.

In all cases, your complaint will be fully investigated and treated in confidence.

09/48 Sponsorship Deadline Ext

Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme Deadline has been extended

The deadline for receipt of completed applications for the Waterways Ireland 2010 Sponsorship Programme has been extended by 14 days until the 17th December 2009 at 3pm. The programme is designed to increase recreational waterway and waterside activity and events. The deadline has been extended to facilitate potential applicants affected by recent unprecedented high water levels.

The programme supports events taking place along the Lower Bann Navigation, the Erne System, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the Shannon Navigation, the Barrow Navigation, the Grand Canal and the Royal Canal.

Taking place annually for the past four years the Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme has supported angling, canoeing, rowing, sailing and power-sports; competitions, learning experiences, historical and educational activities.

The programme aims to encourage increasing numbers of people to experience something new about the waterways.

Applications are open to anyone wishing to run recreational waterway and waterside events. For an application pack please check out the Waterways Ireland website www.waterwaysireland.org events section for a downloadable information pack and application form. Terms and conditions apply. The closing date the receipt of completed applications is 17 December 2009 at 3pm

Waterways Ireland, the North/South Implementation Body is responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway systems throughout the island, principally for recreational purposes.

Ends Word Count 210

For further information contact

Katrina Mc Girr Mobile +353 87 9918412

Ulster Canal SEA

Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report

Restoration of navigation from Upper Lough Erne to Clones

The statutory remit of Waterways Ireland is to manage, maintain, develop and restore the inland navigable waterways, in a sustainable manner. In line with this remit Waterways Ireland are proposing to re-establish navigation on the Ulster Canal between Upper Lough Erne and Clones, in counties Fermanagh, Monaghan and Cavan. The restoration of this waterway would extend the available length of navigation in Ireland. Due to the scale and potential impacts of this proposal it is deemed necessary to undertake a Strategic Environmental Assessment in conjunction with the compilation of the Plan.

Strategic Environmental Assessment

The Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive has been implemented in order to integrate environmental considerations into the preparation of plans and programmes and is a means of ensuring a high level of protection for the environment, while also promoting sustainable development. The Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive will ensure that consideration is given to the environment in implementing the Ulster Canal Restoration Plan - Upper Lough Erne to Clones. The first step in the SEA process involved a screening step which identified that Strategic Environmental Assessment would be required for the Ulster Canal Restoration Plan. This Draft Consultation Scoping Report is the next step in the process.

This document (click here) establishes the scope of works involved for the Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Restoration Plan of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones.

An Environmental Report will be produced as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment and this will be available, together with the draft Restoration Plan of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones for public consultation. All comments received during this consultation and public consultation on the draft Plan and Environmental Report will be considered in the finalisation of the Plan.

The key objectives of the Ulster Canal Restoration Plan from Upper Lough Erne to Clones are to:

Contribute to the sustainable development, restoration and integration of the waterways network of the island of Ireland.
Contribute to managing and maintaining a reliable and high quality waterway network.
Extend the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the Erne System through development of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones.
Aid in delivering the capital works programme under the National Development Plan 2007 - 2013.
Develop the economic and social contribution of the Ulster Canal, from Upper Lough Erne to Clones, to sustainable tourism.
Assess, manage and develop the assets of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones.
Protect and develop the natural and archaeological heritage of the Ulster Canal, from Upper Lough Erne to Clones, as a living environment with regard to access for all.

The Plan will be implemented with short, medium and long term goals for the extension of the inland waterway network to include the development of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones.

Consultation

This phase of the consultation process is now over. All submissions received will be thoroughly assessed with regard to advancing the Strategic Environmental Assessment of the restoration of the Ulster Canal Navigation (Upper Lough Erne to Clones).

EQIA Recruitment & Selection

Equality Impact Assessment of the Recruitment and Selection Policy

Waterways Ireland, as part of its Section 75 responsibilities, has conducted a Equality Impact Assessment on it's Recruitment & Selection Policy. Click here to view document.

Waterways Ireland now wishes to consult on this Equality Impact Assessment.

Timetable for Consultation

This report is offered to public consultation for an 8 week period ending on Friday 23 April 2010.

Format

This report can be made available on request in accessible formats such as Braille, disc, and audiocassette and in alternative languages for those not fluent in English. This paper and Waterways Ireland's Equality Scheme is available on our Website www.waterwaysireland.org

Waterways Ireland seeks to engage with interested groups and individuals in order that it might inform policy development with the considered views and practical experience of relevant groups in relation to Equality of Opportunity.

Specifically the organisation seeks the views of consultees in relation to:-

- The findings that it has presented in this report and the conclusions it has drawn;
- How the organisation's recruitment and selection policy affects groups, individuals and organisations in terms of equality of opportunity;
- What other data, both qualitative and quantitative may be available to inform the Impact Assessment findings; and
- What measures the organisation might take to alter or amend its recruitment and selection policy in order to mitigate adverse impact or better promote equality of opportunity to under represented groups.

The Consultation Stage of its EQIA of its Recruitment and Selection policy consists of:-

1) Written request for responses to stakeholders and target groups;

2) Public press advertisement

All responses received will be noted and given due consideration. These comments and subsequent responses from Waterways Ireland will be summarised and included in the final report.

Further Information on this EQIA please direct all queries to:-

Anne Shine
Equality Officer
Waterways Ireland
2 Sligo Road
Enniskillen
Co Fermanagh
BT74 7JY

Telephone: 028 66323004
Text phone: 028 66346233
Fax: 028 66346 236
E-mail: anne.shine@waterwaysireland.org

Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre

The Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre, following extensive refurbishment, is currently available for use as an exhibition space and for other corporate events.

Should you wish to avail of the space or for a list of upcoming events, please contact

Damien McWeeney
Marketing & Communications Division
Waterwways Ireland
Somerview House
Carrick-on-Shannon
Co Leitrim

Tel no +353 (0)71 965 0787
Email: damien.mcweeney@waterwaysireland.org

2010 Press Releases


Waterways Ireland signals end of Winter Mooring period	04.03.10	Press Release

Waterways Ireland continues to invest in the Erne System	25.02.10	Press Release

Waterways Ireland invests in the Lower Bann	24.02.10	Press Release

Works at Albert Lock, Shannon Navigation is completed	19.02.10	Press Release

Waterways Ireland works at Graiguenamanagh gets underway	19.02.10	Press Release

Waterways Ireland exhibits at London Boat Show 2010	19.02.10	Press Release

Waterside danger in icy conditions	08.01.10	Press Release

10/07 End of Winter Mooring Pe

issued 04.03.10

Waterways Ireland Signals End of Winter Mooring Period

Waterways Ireland has advised its boating customers that the end of the winter mooring period on the Shannon Navigation and Shannon-Erne Waterways is Wednesday 31st March 2010. During the five month winter mooring period, craft owners may make an arrangement to use public moorings for a monthly fee.

From 1 April to 31 October, craft owners are required to comply with Bye-law No. 17 of the Shannon Navigation Bye-laws. The bye-laws require craft to remain no longer than five consecutive days on any public mooring, or more than seven days on that public mooring in any one month.

The service provided by Waterways Ireland is one of a public mooring facility for craft moving along the navigations. The movement of craft facilitates greater tourism and recreational income into the villages and towns along the navigations. The facility is managed in much the same way as a public car-park. By entering the public harbour, users agree to respect the mooring bye-laws and if they disobey the restrictions they can have their craft removed.

In 2009 Waterways Ireland took action where craft owners did not comply with the mooring bye-laws. Fourteen craft were removed from the navigations and only made available to the owners on the payment of all associated costs. Where breaches of the bye-laws are incurred this policy will be enforced in 2010.

For further information on the navigation bye-laws or to speak to the Inspector of Navigation, please contact Waterways Ireland on Tel+0906 494232.

Head of Administration

THE ORGANISATION IS NOW SEEKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING POSITION BASED IN ENNISKILLEN:

Head of Administration
Ref: HAD/000819
Salary Scale: �30,142 - �38,893

SUMMARY OF ROLE
The Head of Administration has responsibility for one of the following sections:

- Marketing & Communications
- Operations Administration
- Property & Legal
- Strategy & Policy

The successful candidate will be a proven Manager with a high level of analytical, planning and communication skills.

For an application form and information pack outlining all of the key functions and essential & desirable criteria for this post, please call 028 (from NI) / 048 (from Republic of Ireland) 66 346220 quoting reference number HAD/000819. Alternatively you may e-mail: amanda.corrigan@waterwaysireland.org or write to Human Resources Section, Waterways Ireland, 2 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT74 7JY. Candidates with a disability who require assistance will be facilitated upon request.
Completed application forms must be received by no later than 4.00pm on Thursday 1st April 2010. Supplementary material such as CVs will not be considered.

Waterways Ireland receives less applicants from the Protestant Community than might be expected, therefore, we particularly welcome applicants from this community.
All applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.

The Lower Bann

MARINE NOTICE 1/2010

Toomebridge

Entrance to Lower Bann Navigation

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters of vessels and users of the waterway that the canal entrance to the navigation from Lough Neagh, at Toomebridge, is heavily silted consequently there is a least depth of approximately 3ft / 0.9m in the navigable channel.

Mariners are advised to navigate with due caution.

Dredging of the channel will take place shortly when weather conditions have improved.

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
11 Jan 2010
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

Masters are advised and reminded to inspect their mooring ropes before departure on a voyage and ensure that there are no knots or foreign objects such as fishing hooks or lead weights embedded in or attached to the mooring ropes. These pose a safety hazard to crew and lockkeepers alike.

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

MARINE NOTICE 53/09

LOWER BANN NAVIGATION

Masters and owners on the Lower Bann are advised of Waterways Ireland change to Lock Opening Hours

Following a period of review of usage of the locks on the Lower Bann Navigation, Waterways Ireland intends to change the opening hours of the locks to better reflect user demand.
The new regime will be implemented from Thursday 4th June 2009 with four periods being established to reflect seasonal use. The extended opening hours during the summer period will remain unchanged however the timings will move forward slightly.

The four opening periods will be as follows:

Season	Months	Opening Hours	Lunch (locks closed)
Spring	1st April to 31st May inclusive	10.00 to 18.30	13.00 to 14.00
High Summer	1st June to 31st August inclusive	09.00 to 20.00	13.00 to 14.00
Autumn	1st September to 31st October inclusive	10.00 to 18.00	13.00 to 14.00
Low Winter	1st November to 31st March inclusive	10.00 to 16.00	13.00 to 14.00

Waterways Ireland advises users to contact lock keepers on the navigation prior to travel where possible.

For any queries regarding these changes please contact Waterways Ireland on Tel 028 7034 4342 or at info@waterwaysireland.org.

Stephen Douglas Senior Engineer Tel 028 7034 4342

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr rtd
Inspector of Navigation
25 May 2009

Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 12/09

LOCK WAITING JETTIES

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the navigations under their jurisdiction that waiting jetties adjacent to locks are for vessels entering / exiting the lock chamber only and should be kept clear at all times. Vessels remaining on these jetties may be moved to alternative berthing.

C. J. Lawn
Lt Cdr Rtd
Inspector of Navigation
20 Feb 2009

Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

The Erne System

MARINE NOTICE 21/2010

Enniskillen - Head of River Race

Masters and owners are advised that the Portora Boat Club Erne Head of River Race will take place on Saturday 13 March 2010 from 10.00 hrs to 17.00 hrs.

The course starts at Culkey Jetty, upstream of the Killyhevlin Hotel and finishes at Portora Boat Club House downstream of the Round "O".

Masters of vessels are requested to proceed at slow speed and with minimum wash when passing this stretch of the navigation and to heed any advice or instructions issued by the race officials.

Waterways Ireland thanks its customers for their cooperation in this matter.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
10 Mar 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232/ +44 (0)28 6632 3004
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 5/2010

Upper and Lower Loughs

Aids to Navigation

Masters of vessels should note that the recent extreme weather conditions which resulted in both flooding and icing, has had a detrimental affect on the Lough Erne marker posts throughout the system, therefore extreme care should be taken when navigating.

Further information may be had by contacting the Lough Erne Warden on +44 (0)28 6632 3004

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
19 Jan 2010
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 131/09

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF PUBLIC JETTIES & SEWAGE PUMP-OUTS

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters, owners and waterway users that the undermentioned public moorings will be closed as a result of damage caused by the recent flooding. These moorings will remain closed until repairs have been carried out.

Notices of closure have been posted at these locations. It is imperative, for safety reasons, that members of the public stay clear of these jetties and that Masters of vessels do not moor alongside them.

The jetties to be closed are:

Lower Lough Erne
Camagh Bay
Carrickreagh
Castle Caldwell
Crevinishaughy Island North
Inish Davar Island
Inishmacsaint Island
Magho
Muckross
Rossclare
Rossigh
Trory
Tully Castle
White Island

In addition the jetties at Crevinishaughy Island East on Lower Lough Erne, Naan Island on Upper Lough Erne and at Erneside Shopping Centre in Enniskillen will remain closed for upgrading construction works.

Sewage holding tank pump-outs at Galloon and Carrybridge are closed for repairs due to flood damage. Pump-out facilities remain available at Belleek and Castle Archdale on Lower Lough Erne, Knockninny on Upper Lough Erne and at the Round 'O' in Enniskillen

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience that this disruption may cause to its customers.

For further details please contact the Lough Erne Warden on +44 (0)28 6632 2836

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
22 December 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 111/09

Upper Lough Erne

Temporary Closure of Naan Island Public Jetty

The public mooring jetty at Naan Island on Upper Lough Erne is now closed to the public for improvement works until the end of February 2010.

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience caused to its customers.

For further details please contact the Lough Erne Warden on +44 (0)28 6632 2836

C J Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
27 Oct 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 99/09

Enniskillen

Walkway Refurbishment

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise its customers that the mooring jetty at Erneside Shopping Centre in Enniskillen will be closed to the public for walkway improvement works until January 2010. Work is due to commence tomorrow Wed 23 Sep 2009.

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience that this may cause its customers.

For further details please contact the Lough Erne Warden on +44 (0)28 6632 2836

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
22 Sep 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

10/06 Lough Erne Winter Works

issued 25.02.10

Waterways Ireland Continues to Invest on the Erne System

Waterways Ireland is happy to confirm that work is continuing to upgrade facilities on Lower Lough Erne at Crevinishaughy Island near Castle Archdale and at Muckross, Kesh as well as at Naan Island on Upper Lough Erne and at Erneside Shopping Centre in Enniskillen.

The works at Crevinashaughy Island North involves the replacement and extension of fixed level public jetty.

The works at Naan Island include the replacement of the original fixed level jetty with floating jetty and walkway to the shore. This work was delayed due to flooding following by freezing conditions but has now been completed and is open to the public.

Both projects costing approximately �110,000 in total are expected to be complete at the beginning of the boating season The projects has been designed and commissioned by Waterways Ireland.

Erneside Shopping Centre has improved waterway access with the provision of a new timber walkway and pedestrian footway. The works which will cost approximately �20,000 will be complete by mid March.

At Muckross, planned works to provide a new slipway have gone out to tender. Work on the slipway and an adjacent car and trailer parking area are due to be complete later in the year. This project is expected to cost approximately �100,000.

Investment in the maintenance and development of resources on the Erne System is key to the continuing promotion of the lakeland as a tourism and recreational resource thereby meeting Waterways Ireland objectives while delivering for local business and residents alike.

Seasonal Waterway Patrollers

THE ORGANISATION IS NOW SEEKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING POSITION:

Temporary Seasonal Waterway Patroller (April 2010 to September 2010)

Ref: WWP/000815
Salary: �275.45 per week pro rata
Location: Lock 1 Corraquill, Derrylin, Co. Fermanagh

The successful applicant will assist with lock operations on a rota basis.

Applicants must possess ALL of the following:
- Good communication skills
- Basic numeracy skills
- Experience of lock operations
- Be aware of the Health and Safety issues associated with the operation of lock chambers

For an application form and information pack outlining all of the key functions and Essential and Desirable criteria of each post, please call 028 (from NI) / 048 (from Republic of Ireland) 66 346220 quoting the relevant reference number. Alternatively you may e-mail: amanda.corrigan@waterwaysireland.org or write to Human Resources Section, Waterways Ireland, 2 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT74 7JY. Candidates with a disability who require assistance will be facilitated upon request.
Completed application forms must be received by no later than 4.00pm on Thursday 1st April 2010. Supplementary material such as CVs will not be considered.

Waterways Ireland is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from suitably qualified candidates irrespective of religious belief, gender, disability, race, political opinion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, whether or not they have dependents, or whether or not they are members of the travelling community. All applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit. Waterways Ireland receives less applicants from the Protestant Community than might be expected, therefore, we particularly welcome applicants from this community.
All applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.

2009 Press Releases


Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme Deadline Extended	27.11.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland dredges the Dublin Inner City Canals	30.10.09	Press Release

Investment in Killaloe by Waterways Ireland	28.10.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Erne World Pike Fishing Classic Success	19.10.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Taste of the Waterways Award launched - Cafe Merlot wins	19.10.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Investment in Shannon at Albert Lock	09.10.09	Press Release

Success at Discover Tullamore	06.10.09	Press Release

Tullamore...Discover...	21.09.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Watermaster Shines at Ploughing Championships	21.09.09	Press Release

Discover Mullingar	14.09.09	Press Release

Crowds Descend on Waterways Ireland Carrick Rowing Regatta	13.08.09	Press Releases

'Tri' raises vital funds for Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon	13.08.09	Press Releases

Discover Tullamore	30.07.09	Press Release

Patrolling the Waterways	27.07.09	Press Release

Waterways Success at TriAthlone	23.07.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Triathlone 2009 Kicks Off	16.07.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Triathlone 2009 Launches with a Big Splash	30.06.09	Press Release

QuickAction Avert Fish Kill on Grand Canal	25.06.09	Press Release

New Craft Enters Waterways Ireland Work Fleet	19.06.09	Press Release

Discover Athlone Success	19.06.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Loughfest Launched	08.06.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Riverfest Launched	05.06.09	Press Release

Discover Carrick-on Shannon Day Launched	05.06.09	Press Release

Minister oCuiv Launches the Waterways Ireland Taste of the Waterways	29.05.09	Press Release

Discover Athlone Day Launched	28.05.09	Press Release

Lower Bann Opening Hours	22.05.09	Press Release

Minister Campbell Launches the Waterways Ireland Taste of the Waterways	14.05.09	Press Release

Plaque unveiled by Lord Mayor to mark completion of flood protection works	11.05.09	Press Release

Final Bridge Completed in Royal Canal Restoration	29.04.09	Press Release

New Waterway Patroller Facility Opens in the Shannon Erne Waterway	27.04.09	Press Release

Minister Finneran Opens Cortober Riverside Park	20.04.09	Press Release

Journalist Visits the Lakelands & Inland Waterways	06.04.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Invests in the Lower Bann at Portglenone Wood	03.04.09	Press Release

Million Euro Announcement for Clondara, Co Longford	30.04.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Invests in the Lower Bann at Camus	30.03.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland On-site at Lecarrow	26.03.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Barrow Wild Water Race	13.03.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Investment in the Shannon at Battlebridge	09.03.09	Press Release

Minister oCuiv T.D, Launches New Lakeland & inland Waterways Regional Guides	26.02.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Guide to the Lower Bann	16.02.09	Press Release

Boyle Harbour Wins LAMA Award	04.02.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland hosts Minister o Cuiv TD at London Boat Show	04.02.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Hosts Minister Campbell MLA at London Boat Show	04.02.09	Press Release

Sponsorship Deadline Approaches	01.02.09	Press Release

Ministers Plant Clare Apple Tree in Fermanagh	28.01.09	Press Release

Fish Rescue	22.01.09	Press Release

Waterways Ireland Headquarters Official Opening	19.01.09	Press Release

Notice to Remove Craft

Notice of Intent to Remove Craft under Canal Act, 1986 Bye-Laws, 1988

Notice is hereby given that it is the intention of Waterways Ireland to remove and dispose of five vessels from the Grand Canal/Barrow Line at Lowtown in accordance with the Canal Act, 1986 (Bye-Laws), 1988.

These vessels have been sunk or abandoned for a considerable time on the canal in Lowtown, Co. Kildare. They will now be removed from the canal and will subsequently be sold by public tender.

List of Vessels to be Removed

VESSEL ID	TYPE	HULL COLOUR	LENGTH/BEAM

Shannon number 4392	Shetland Day Cruiser	White	Approx. 6m

Shannon number 4766	KITE 21 Lux Day Cruiser	White	Approx. 6m

Shannon number 5228	Wooden Hulled Cruiser	White	Approx. 5m

Shannon number 2176	GRP Day Cruiser	White	Approx. 7m

No registration number	"Ex- Lifeboat" Type Wooden Hull	White	Approx. 10m

No registration number	GRP Day Cruiser	Blue	Approx. 7m

Waterways Ireland are seeking to locate the owners of these vessels in order to arrange the recovery.

If you have any information in relation to these craft please contact:

Shane Anderson
Assistant Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
Canal Maintenance Depot
Harbour Street
Tullamore
Co. Offaly

Mob no +353 (0)87 286 5726

Career Opportunities

Waterways Ireland recruits a range of employees for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Recruits have the opportunity to launch a great career in a young organisation which aims to be at the forefront of a new age in the restoration and development of the island's waterways.

Waterways Ireland recognises the importance of all employees in meeting this aim, and is committed to providing excellent training and development opportunities in this exciting field of work.

All vacancies, as and when they arise, are advertised in local and / or national press, on the Waterways Ireland website, and in relevant publications such as engineering journals or graduate publications. CV's are not accepted.

Job Title	Details	Closing Date
Head of Administration	Click here for details	1st April 2010

Seasonal Waterway Patrollers	Click here for details	1st April 2010

Press Releases

Archive Press Releases issued by Waterways Ireland:

Press Releases

Archive Press Releases issued by Waterways Ireland:

Angling

The Central Fisheries Board are contracted by Waterways Ireland to manage the fisheries development, weed management and water quality on the Royal Canal, the Grand Canal, the Barrow Navigation and a part of the Shannon-Erne Waterway.

On the Shannon Navigation the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board manages the fisheries.

On the Lower Bann Navigation and Lough Erne, the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure (DCAL) is responsible for the management and development of the fisheries.

For game fishing on the Lower Bann contact:
Bann Systems
Cutts House
54 Castleroe Rd
Coleraine
BT51 3RL
Tel no +44 (0)28 7034 4796

Coarse angling in the north and south of Ireland whether as club members or as individual anglers is supported by the National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland.

Shannon Erne Boat Hire

Cruiser and Barge Hire on the Shannon Erne Waterway

Corraquill Cruising
Tel no +44 (0)28 6774 8712
Email ed.weeks@ntlworld.com
Web www.corraquill.co.uk

Locaboat Holidays
Tel no +353 (0)71 964 5923
Email info@locaboat.com
Web www.locaboat.com

Riversdale Barge Holidays
Tel no +353 (0)71 9644122
Email info@riversdalebargeholidays.com
Web www.riversdalebargeholidays.com

Classes of Information

Waterways Ireland's publications are organised into classes of information within the following categories:


Waterways Ireland - Our Organisation

Waterways Ireland's Mission	Click Here
Waterways Ireland's Goals	Click Here
Organisational Structure	Click Here
Plans and Strategy	Click Here
Human Resource Policy	Click Here
Equality	Click Here
Annual Reports	Click Here
Legislation	Click Here
Financial Memorandum	Click Here


Customer Advice and Guidance
Customer Advice	Click Here
Standards of Service	Click Here
Complaints Procedure	Click Here


Media
Press Releases	Click Here

09/47 Dredging of the Canals

Issued 30.10.09

Waterways Ireland dredges the Grand and Royal Canals in Dublin

Waterways Ireland has confirmed that dredging of the Dublin inner city section of the Grand and Royal Canals will commence in November 2009.The work is key to keeping the Canal navigable for a range of boats. To facilitate works the Grand Canal Circular Line, Lock 1 - Lock 5 will be closed to navigation from 2 November 2009
The work will involve the removal of sediment deposits from the central navigation channel of the canals and the clearance of rubbish. There may be an impact on traffic in these areas during this period. Traffic Management Plans agreed with Dublin City Council, have been designed to keep disruption to a minimum. Works are due to be completed by year end.
Dredging on the Grand Canal will commence at Lock 1 at Grand Canal Dock Road and progress in a westerly direction to Lock 4 at Baggott Street Bridge. The work will be undertaken by BAM Construction Limited and will involve the use of excavating machinery working within the canal.
The Royal Canal contract will commence at Lock 1 at the North Strand Road Bridge and progress in a westerly direction to Lock 6 at Cabra. The work will be undertaken by John Paul Construction and will involve the use of floating equipment.
An engineer will be full time in attendance for the duration of the contract to ensure that issues which arise are dealt with in a prompt and efficient manner. He can be contacted on Tel 087 1778563.
All material removed from the canals will be transported to licensed disposal facilities.
The work is funded by the Government under the National Development Plan 2007 - 2013. For further information on the project please visit the Waterways Ireland web site www.waterwaysireland.org and check out the 'Navigation Information, Planned Works' page.

Find Somewhere To Stay

For accomodation listings please click on the following link Find Somewhere To Stay

Erne System Planned Works

2009 Capital Projects

Round 'O' slipway and moorings, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh (Project Completed)

Re-furbishment and upgrade of slipway, replacement of existing waterbus moorings and 110m of fixed level public moorings with 240m of floating moorings - slipway completed March 2008, 267 metres of public moorings opened in December 2008 and 23 metres of Waterbus mooring opened for use in mid March 2009.

Boat Hire Companies

Cruiser and Barge Hire

Click on the waterways below for a listing of Cuiser and Barge Hire Companies operating on them.

Shannon Erne Waterway	Click Here for Boat Hire Company Details
Erne System	Click Here for Boat Hire Company Details
Grand Canal	Click Here for Boat Hire Company Details
Barrow Navigation	Click Here for Boat Hire Company Details
Royal Canal	Click Here for Boat Hire Company Details
Shannon Navigation	Click Here for Boat Hire Company Details

The Irish Boat Rental Association provides a listing and details of its members on the Web: www.waterwayholidays.com

- Lakelands & Inland Waterways

LAKELANDS AND INLAND WATERWAYS LAUNCHED AT THE EARLS COURT BOAT SHOW IN LONDON

Waterways Ireland and Failte Ireland launched a new and exciting development in the promotion of Ireland's waterways last Friday (30th November) in London. The development involves a marketing and product campaign of some €2.5m over the next 3 years.

Initially a number of marketing aids are being brought to the market and include a guide, map, DVD and website. These marketing aids are the fruition of work by a partnership of tourism organisations including Waterways Ireland, Failte Ireland, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Tourism Ireland, Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism and Shannon Development which have come together to pool resources, share ideas and develop initiatives. This is but the first stage of a programme of this partnership of agencies.

Mr. Martin Dennany of Waterways Ireland, speaking at the launch of the initiative at the Whyte & Mackay Earls Court Boat Show '07 said, "The benefits to the waterways of this new departure are many; this is the first time that all the various agencies responsible for tourism and product development have come together to market and develop the waterways and their hinterland as a single entity."

Mr. Dennany added, "Economies of scale through the pooling of resources and the elimination of duplication of initiatives are of major benefit not only to the partner agencies but also to the consumer in general. For too long the waterways and their attractions were on the periphery, if not neglected. Now, we are delighted to say they are at the centre of tourism on the island of Ireland."

Mr. Kevin Kidney of Failte Ireland said, "It is significant that this initiative covers the 400km stretch from Belleek on Lough Erne in Co. Fermanagh all the way to the Shannon Estuary at Limerick taking in a 30km radius along its route. The involvement of agencies on both sides of the border is welcome and became possible due in part to the nature of Waterways Ireland as a North-South Body but also because of the nature of the 3 connecting waterways themselves."

- Ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 02.12.2007 PR07015

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing & Communications, Waterways Ireland with Marie McCormack, Failte Ireland East and Midlands at the launch of the "Lakelands and Inland Waterways" at the Earls Court Boat Show in London on Friday 30th November.

Investment Portglenone Wood

Waterways Ireland Invests in the Lower Bann

Waterways Ireland are happy to confirm the arrival of 36 metres of floating jetties on-site at Portglenone Wood on the East shore of the Lower Bann River. The floating jetties form part of a �137,000 programme of work underway at the site since mid October 2008. The jetties will be installed in the coming weeks and will add to the boaters experience of the Lower Bann in 2009.

The upgrade of facilities at Portglenone Wood forms part of a programme to upgrade facilities all along the Lower Bann. The project designed and commissioned by Waterways Ireland will be completed by Christmas 2008. The works have been contracted to Ward Civil Engineering Ltd of Magherafelt. Waterways Ireland would like to thank the Forest Service for their assistance with this project.

For Further Information Contact

Waterways Ireland
Press Office - Katrina Mc Girr Tel no +353 (0)87 9918412
Senior Engineer - Stephen Forrest Tel no +44 (0)79 1959 6487

Data Protection

REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION

Data Protection Legislation

The Data Protection Acts, North and South, provide the right for individuals to access information held about them. Personal data held may take the form of computerised or, in some cases, paper records.

If you wish to make a request it must:

be in writing (including e-mail) to the contact below
be responded to within 40 calendar days

Waterways Ireland Data Protection Officer

Brian Cleland
Waterways Ireland Data Protection Officer
5/7 Belmore Street
Enniskillen
+44 (0) 28 6634 6282

Waterways Ireland Data Protection Information

Data Protection Act 1998 - UK

Data Protection Acts 1988 and 2003 - ROI

Data Protection

REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION

Data Protection Legislation

If you wish to make a request it must:

be in writing (including e-mail) to the contact below
be responded to within 40 calendar days

Waterways Ireland Data Protection Officer

Brian Cleland
Waterways Ireland Data Protection Officer
5/7 Belmore Street
Enniskillen
+44 (0) 28 6634 6282

Waterways Ireland Data Protection Information

Data Protection Act 1998 - UK

Data Protection Acts 1988 and 2003 - ROI

Proposed New Office Update

WATERWAYS IRELAND NEW REGIONAL OFFICE IN CARRICK ON SHANNON

At a press conference in Carrick on Shannon this afternoon it was announced that Waterways Ireland would not proceed with plans to build the new Regional Office on the site owned by Waterways Ireland at Cortober, Carrick on Shannon.

In September, Waterways Ireland organised a public meeting to consider the views of interested parties as part of the consultation process for the proposed new Regional Office for Waterways Ireland.

Approximately 280 local residents and interested parties attended the public meeting and provided feedback on the proposed building and its location. During the two hour meeting, presentations were made by Waterways Ireland and the OPW and it was an opportunity for Waterways Ireland to listen to all comments and concerns regarding the proposed building and location.

All comments were considered by Waterways Ireland and the final decision not to proceed to planning stages was announced by John Martin, Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland. Speaking at the press conference, he said, "Given the number and indeed weight of opposition to the proposed site and having taken into account a number of other factors, Waterways Ireland has decided not to proceed with the building at the Cortober location. We have informed the Office of Public Works of our decision and will be asking them to seek an alternative site for the building."

At the press conference it was also announced that Waterways Ireland will be initiating discussions with Roscommon County Council regarding an improvement programme for the site in Cortober with a view to providing a quality recreation and amenity area, with involvement from local residents. The site at Cortober is owned by Waterways Ireland and leased to Roscommon County Council at present.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 879918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 03.11.2005
PR050026

Proposed New Office Update

WATERWAYS IRELAND NEW REGIONAL OFFICE IN CARRICK ON SHANNON

In September, Waterways Ireland organised a public meeting to consider the views of interested parties as part of the consultation process for the proposed new Regional Office for Waterways Ireland.

- ends -

Further information from:

Date: 03.11.2005
PR050026

New Moorings - Kilglass

NEW MOORINGS AT KILGLASS, CO ROSCOMMON

Waterways Ireland is delighted to announce that work has commenced on a scheme to provide new moorings and upgrade the amenity area at Kilglass, on the Shannon Navigation. The moorings are located on Kilglass Lake approximately 4km north of the Scramoge junction on the Rooskey Road in Co Roscommon. Waterways Ireland has recently taken over responsibility for the management and maintenance of the Kilglass Moorings from Roscommon County Council.

The existing fixed wooden jetties will be replaced by new floating jetties which will provide mooring for 8 to 10 craft. In addition to the new moorings, Waterways Ireland will be installing a floating breakwater to provide added protection to moored boats from the prevailing winds across Kilglass Lake. The amenity area will be enhanced with the addition of picnic tables and environmentally sensitive lighting along with an extended car-park which will include spaces for wheelchair users.

The total cost of the project is estimated at €300,000. The project is due to be completed in early 2007 ahead of the 2007 boating season.

Waterways Ireland also recently announced plans to extend the Shannon Navigation north from Lough Allen to Annagh Upper, near Dowra. Further information on this project is available at www.waterwaysireland.org.

Waterways Ireland is the North/South Implementation Body responsible for managing, maintaining, developing and restoring the inland navigable waterways throughout the island.

- ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 23.10.2006
PR06030

Human Resource Policy

Information on personnel policy


Title	Section	Class

Current Vacancies	Human Resources	Our Organisation
Staff Numbers Employed	Human Resources	Our Organisation

Click on any of the publications above to download.

Equality Information


Title	Section	Class

Waterways Ireland Equality Scheme	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Survey of Waterways Users - Equality Report	Corporate Services	Our Organisation

Click on any of the publications above to download.

2006 Erne Pike Fishing Classic

WATERWAYS IRELAND ERNE INTERNATIONAL PIKE FISHING CLASSIC 2006 RESULTS

The 2006 Waterways Ireland Erne International Pike Fishing Classic finished yesterday (Sunday) with the second of the two day boat fishing event. The first day of the competition on Friday was a shore competition. The festival, which is in its first year, was an outstanding success with an excess of 400 fish caught over the three days.

The first overall winner for the heaviest fish was Dave Roche from Aughnacliff, Co Longford with an impressive 22lb 3oz specimen fish caught on Sunday, which earned him the top prize of �3,000 and a crystal trophy. Close behind in second place was Terry Sheridan from Gowna, Co Cavan with 21lb 14oz; and local angler, Geoff Crawford from Enniskillen in third place with a 20lb 7oz catch. The winners of the cumulative boat prize (for Saturday and Sunday) were Mattie Gray and Martin Cusworth who caught 14 pike with a total weight of 85lb 4oz.

During the festival the conditions were ideal for pike angling with overcast and foggy weather and a good flow rate on Lough Erne. The event was enjoyed by all competitors and all fish returned alive to the water. The organisers ensured that fish welfare was paramount during the competition and best practice was employed when handling the fish under the supervision of stewarts, including DCAL Inland Fisheries staff.

The event was sponsored by Waterways Ireland and organised by the Erne Anglers Angling Club with support from Fermanagh District Council and DCAL Inland Fisheries.

FULL RESULTS

Friday's Results (Shore Competition)
First place: Barry Dickson, Ballinamallard, Co Fermanagh, 16lb 4oz.
Second place: Harold Beresford, Ennskillen, Co Fermanagh, 15lb 6oz
Third place: Andrew Mussen, Glengormley, Co Antrim, 15lb
Fourth place: Lee Mawhinney, Lisburn, Co Down, 14lb 11oz
Fifth place: Noel Maguire, Ballyconnell, Co Cavan, 14lb

Saturday's Results (First Day of Boat Competition)
First place: Geoff Crawford, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, 20lb 7oz
Second place: Phelim Jennings, Newry, Co Down, 19lb 2oz
Third place: Aidan McAdam, Castleblaney, Co Monaghan, 15lb 8oz

Sunday's Results (Second Day of Boat Competition)
First place: Dave Roche, Aughnacliffe, Co Longford, 22lb 3oz
Second place: Terry Sheridan, Gowna, Co Cavan, 21lb 14oz
Third place: Steven Lindon, Monaghan, 18lb 12oz

Dave Roche, Aughnacliffe, Co. Longford, overall winner of the Waterways Ireland International Pike Fishing Classic on Lough Erne, receiving his award and cheque for �3,000 from Martin Dennany (second right) Director of Marketing and Communications Waterways Ireland. Included are Cllr. John O'Kane, Chairman of Fermanagh District Council and Christine McCann, Chairperson of the Fermanagh Sports Advisory Committee.

Dave Roche, Aughnacliffe, Co. Longford, overall winner of the Waterways Ireland International Pike Fishing Classic with a specimen fish of 22lb 3oz caught on Sunday 22nd October.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or
Eddie McGovern, Fermanagh District Council on 0044 28 6632 3110.

Date: 23.10.2006
PR06031

Sailing

Sailing is enjoyed on the navigations with established clubs on Lough Ree, Lough Derg and the Erne System as well as a range of outdoor centres on the other navigations.

A large range of classes including Mirrors, Optimists, J24's, Lasers, Squibs, Fireballs and a multitude others can be found sailing throughout the week from April to October.

The majority of sailing establishments also run sailing courses and teach people from a wide range of ages to sail.

While many boats are sailed for pleasure a great number also compete regularly throughout the season, with some travelling to compete in regattas and championships on the other lakes.

Sailing is governed in the Republic of Ireland by the Irish Sailing Association who can be contacted at
2 Park Rd, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin Te lno 0252 1 280 0239 Fax no 00 353 1 280 7558 Emal info@sailing.ie Website www.sailing.ie

Sailing in Northern Ireland is governed by the Royal Yachting Association (N.I) and can be contacted at
House of Sport, Upper Malone Rd, Belfast BT9 5LA, Tel no +44 28 9038 3812 Email admin@ryani.org.uk

2009 Sponsorship Programme

Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme Opens

Waterways Ireland 2009 Sponsorship Programme for recreational waterway and waterside activity opens this week for events taking place along the Lower Bann Navigation, the Erne System, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the Shannon Navigation, the Barrow Navigation, the Grand Canal and the Royal Canal.

�anna Rowe, Head of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland stated that "Communities, clubs and associations in towns and villages, along rural waterways and in waterside urban centres, have participated in small and large events. Huge numbers of people have been encouraged to experience something new about the waterways."

Applications are open to anyone wishing to run recreational waterway and waterside events. For an application pack please contact Damien McWeeney by email at damien.mcweeney@waterwaysireland.org, by telephone at +353 71 96 50787. Terms and conditions do apply. The closing date the receipt of completed applications is 3 February 2009.

For further information contact

Katrina Mc Girr
Waterways Ireland Press Officer
Tel no +353 71 96 50622
Mobile +353 87 9918412
Email Katrina.mcgirr@waterwaysireland.org

.Lakelands & Inland Waterways

€2M All-ISLAND CAMPAIGN TO MARKET IRELAND'S LAKELANDS AND INLAND WATERWAYS

Failte Ireland and Waterways Ireland have launched a €2million promotional campaign to market Ireland's Lakelands and inland Waterways to domestic and international visitors. The campaign aims to significantly boost visitor numbers to the lakeland regions over the next three years.

The campaign which promotes water based and land based activities from Belleek in County Fermanagh to County Limerick is a new departure and involves cross border, inter-agency partnerships between Failte Ireland, Waterways Ireland, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Shannon Development and Local Authorities from Lough Erne to the Shannon basin.

Launching the Campaign in Clonmacnoise on Friday 12th October, the Tanaiste and Minister for Finance, Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D. said; "Our Inland Waterways and Lakelands offer some of the most scenic and unspoiled areas of the country. I welcome this initiative among industry bodies to join forces to promote this region in such a unique fashion. We at Government level are supportive of this initiative and we are currently awaiting EU approval on the proposed Tax Incentives scheme which will promote sustainable tourism development and a new generation of tourism enterprises along the Mid Shannon Corridor".

Commenting on the launch, Mr Shaun Quinn, Chief Executive, Failte Ireland said, "Our research indicates that domestic and overseas visitors alike are seeking tranquility, relaxation and an unspoiled landscape when they choose to holiday in Ireland. The midland corridor, which includes some of our most beautiful countryside and waterways, offers a taste of a traditional, relatively unexplored Ireland. However, he stressed the critical importance of continued capital investment in the region by all partners and the private sector as provided for under the NDP in order to realise the true potential of tourism in the region".

While overall visitor numbers to Ireland are on the increase and frequency of breaks among domestic visitors is also on the increase, the cruising sector has suffered a decline in recent years. This campaign supports Failte Ireland's cruising strategy which identified the infrastructure and product improvements required to ensure that Ireland's reputation as a quality destination for in-land cruising is maintained.
"Tourists needs are changing, they are no longer satisfied with just taking a trip, instead they have a desire for a life enriching experience. We believe that many parts of Ireland offer an authenticity and a pace of life which is still unique to Ireland. This is something which we need protect as it allows Ireland to be marketed as a unique holiday experience that is not available elsewhere," added Shaun Quinn.

John Martin, CEO Waterways Ireland added, "From the outset Waterways Ireland recognised that in order to enhance and develop the great potential of the waterways that a solid platform for sustained market development through working in partnership with other agencies was the cornerstone to delivery. I am particularly pleased today to see the fruition of work by such a partnership and indeed would like to pay tribute to my own staff and those of Failte Ireland, NITB, Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism and Shannon Development who have come together to pool resources, share ideas and develop initiatives. I know that this is but the first stage of phase one and I look forward to the next stages and to the continued working relationship with our colleagues in Failte Ireland".

The Lakeland and inland Waterways promotional campaign involves the publication of a 50 page guide to the region, a DVD and a new web-site (www.discoverireland.ie/lakelands). These tools which highlight the activities, opportunities and accommodation base available to visitors form part of an overall campaign designed to increase holiday makers to the region.

- ends -

2008 Press Releases

Archive

Floating Jetties at Round 'O'	Dec 08	Press Release

Investment in Portglenone Wood	Dec 08	Press Release

Opening of Sponsorship Programme 2009	Dec 08	Press Release

Boom at Rooskey Weir	Nov 08	Press Release

Reopening of Termonbarry Bridge	Nov 08	Press Release

Waterways Ireland vindicated	03.09.08	Press Release

New Craft Registration System	18.08.08	Press Release

Results of WI TriAthlone 2008	June 08	Press Release

Preparations for WI TriAthlone 2008	23.06.08	Press Release

Cortober Riverside Green Area	June 08	Press Release

Launch of Waterways Ireland's Riverfest	22.05.08	Press Release

Day 3 Classic Fishing Festival	02.05.08	Press Release

Day 2 Classic Fishing Festival	30.04.08	Press Release

Day 1 Classic Fishing Festival	29.04.08	Press Release

Removal of vessels in Grand Canal Basin	14.04.08	Press Release

Launch of 2008 Classic Fishing Festival	20.03.08	Press Release

Launch of Waterways Ireland National Development Plan	11.03.08	Press Release

Launch of Fibre Optic Network	27.02.08	Press Release

Launch of 2008 TriaAthlone		Press Release

Launch of Accessible Sailing Programme	23.01.08	Press Release

Vistor Centre Temporary Closed

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF THE WATERWAYS IRELAND VISITOR CENTRE

The Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre in the Grand Canal Basin, Ringsend, Dublin will close temporarily on Friday 30th September for refurbishment.

Waterways Ireland would like to thank the Visitor Centre guides for their commitment over the years and the Office of Public Works for assistance with providing the guide service.

The refurbishment works will create a new dynamic multi-functional space at the Visitors Centre.

Any queries regarding the Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre should be directed to the Marketing and Communications Division, Waterways Ireland, by telephone to +353 71 9650787 or by email to info@waterwaysireland.org.

Waterways Ireland is the North/South implementation body responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway systems principally for recreational purposes.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 22.09.2005
PR050024

09/46 Killaloe Investment

Issued 28.10.09

Killaloe Investment by Waterways Ireland

Waterways Ireland has received confirmation of planning approval for a development on the Shannon Navigation at Killaloe, Co Clare. The work will commence in November 2009 and be completed in 2010.

The development will consist of repairs to 450m of existing canal wall and the provision of a new walkway along its length.
New flow control gates are to be constructed and installed at the northern end of the existing canal extending the life of the canal wall and banks. A pedestrian footbridge will also be incorporated into the gates creating additional access to the walkway.

A new 250m floating mooring including access gangways and services is also planned, and will be installed on the river side of the canal wall. The manufacture of the floating jetties has commenced offsite. They will be installed in November 2009 with the remainder of the work to take place in 2010.

The works have been designed and commissioned by Waterways Ireland and will be undertaken by a combination of Waterways Ireland staff and specialist contractors, secured following a tendering procedure.

Guide to Information Available

Freedom of Information

Waterways Ireland operates a Freedom of Information Code of Practice. This Code of Practice has been approved by the North / South Ministerial Council and is effective from 1st February 2006. The Code is non-statutory and has been drafted with regard to the Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 and 2003 in Ireland and the Freedom of Information Act, 2000 in the United Kingdom. A copy of the Code of Practice is available to download by clicking on the link below.

Freedom of Information Code of Practice

A copy of the Code of Practice is also available by e-mail at:

informationrequest@waterwaysireland.org

or in hard copy by contacting:

Strategy and Policy Section
2 Sligo Road
ENNISKILLEN
BT74 6JY
Tel no +44 (0)28 6632 3004

Freedom of Information

Freedom of Information Code of Practice

A copy of the Code of Practice is also available by e-mail at:

informationrequest@waterwaysireland.org

or in hard copy by contacting:

Strategy and Policy Section
2 Sligo Road
ENNISKILLEN
BT74 6JY
Tel no +44 (0)28 6632 3004

Grand Canal Planned Works

2009 Capital Projects

Clondalkin Towpath Enhancement (Project ongoing)

Project in conjunction with South Dublin Council.

Eastern Region Signage Grand Canal Urban (Project ongoing)

Provision and installation of informational, navigational and safety signage at various locations.

Grand Canal Dredging Project (Project ongoing)

Waterways Ireland proposes to dredge the Grand Canal Circular Line from Grand Canal Dock Road to Baggott Street Bridge. BAM Civil Engineering Ltd has been appointed to undertake the works on site.

Works will commence 2nd November 2009 and are expected to be completed within 10-12 weeks.

Waterways Ireland will have a representative on site (Resident Engineer (RE)) throughout the duration of the Contract to deal with issues which may arise. The RE will be based in Dublin with a contact number advertised on information boards that will be displayed on site. Prior to commencement of site operations the contact person will be Stephen Forrest (Tel. 048 6634 6294).

Boat Registration

Boat Registrations & Permits

Erne System, Shannon-Erne Waterway & Shannon Navigation

All boats with an engine capacity of more than 10bhp on the Erne System and 15bhp on the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the Shannon Navigation must be registered with the Waterways Ireland Inspectorate. Registration is free of charge and can be completed by contacting the Inspectorate Office closest to you, or by downloading the Registration Form from our website www.waterwaysireland.org You will be provided with a registration number which must be displayed in a prominent position on your boat. Boats registered on the Erne System, the Shannon Navigation or the Shannon-Erne Waterway do not need to reregister when moving to another waterway.

Boat Registration Form - Shannon

Boat Registration Form - Erne System

Lower Bann Navigation

Waterways Ireland does not have a registration scheme on the Lower Bann.

Barrow Navigation, Grand Canal & Royal Canal

On the Barrow Navigation, Grand Canal and Royal Canal boats must display a valid Permit. An Annual Permit can be purchased which includes mooring and lock passage charges. For shorter periods of travel boaters can purchase monthly Mooring Permits and pay for lock passages on an individual basis.

Lock Passage € 0.60 per lock
Mooring €12.70 per month
Annual Permit €126.00 per annum

Permits can be purchased from the following Waterways Ireland locations:

Eastern Regional Office
Floor 2 Block C,
Ashtowngate,
Navan Road,
Dublin 15
Tel no +353 (0)1 868 0148

Grand Canal
Dock Superintendent at Ringsend
Tel no +353 (0)87 258 4713

Grand Canal Depot, Tullamore
Tel no +353 (0)57 935 2300

Lock-keeper at Lowtown
Tel no +353 (0)87 245 6531

Lock-keeper at Shannon Harbour
Tel no +353 (0)87 245 6587

Barrow Navigation

Lock-keeper at Fenniscourt
Tel no +353 (0)87 951 6333

Lock-keeper at Graiguenamanagh
Tel no +353 (0)87 950 8987

Royal Canal

Water Controller,
Royal Canal Locks 17 - 39
Tel no +353 (0)87 618 2104

For further information on boat registration and permits contact the Inspectorate:

Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
The Docks
Athlone
Co Westmeath
Tel no +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax no +353 (0)90 649 4147

Assistant Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
Harbour Street
Tullamore
Co Offaly
Tel no +353 (0)57 935 2300
Fax no +353 (0)57 935 1812

Assistant Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
Sommerview House
Old Dublin Road
Carrick-on-Shannon
Co Leitrim
Tel no +353 (0)71 965 0787
Fax no +353 (0)71 962 3450

Lough Erne Warden
Waterways Ireland
2 Sligo Road
Enniskillen
Co Fermanagh
BT74 7JY
Tel no +44 (0)28 6632 2836
Fax no +44 (0)28 6634 6257

Shannon Boat Hire

Cruiser and Barge Hire on the Shannon Navigation

Athlone Cruisers
Tel no +353 (0)90 6472892
Web: www.iol.ie/wmeathtc/acl/

Carrick Craft
Tel no +44 (0)28 3834 4993
Email sales@carrickcraft.com
Web www.cruise-ireland.com

Emerald Star Ltd
Tel no +353 (0)71 962 0234
Email info@emerald-star.com
Web www.emeraldstar.ie

Lough Derg Holiday Village
Tel no +353 (0)61 376 777
Email info@loughderg.net
Web www.loughderg.net

Lough Ree Cruisers
Tel no +353 (0)1 492 3150
Email info@loughreecruisers.com
Web www.loughreecruisers.com

Shannon Castle Line
Tel no +353 (0)61 927042
Email info@shannoncruisers.com
Web www.shannoncruisers.com

Shannon Private Cruisers
Mob no +353 (0)86 2730721
Email info@shannonprivatecruisers.com
Web www.shannonprivatecruisers.com

Silver Line Cruisers Ltd
Tel no +353 (0)57 915 1112
Email info@silverlinecruisers.com
Web www.silverlinecruisers.com

Spirit of Killaloe
Tel no +353 (0)61 376691
Mob no +353 (0)86 8140559
Web www.spiritofkillaloe.com

Tara Cruisers
Tel no +353 (0)71 9622266
Email cruise@taracruisers.ie
Web www.taracruisers.ie

Waveline Cruisers
Tel no +353 (0)90 6485711
Email info@waveline.ie
Web: www.waveline.ie

About Waterways Ireland

Waterways Ireland is one of the six North/South Implementation Bodies established under the British Irish Agreement in 1999.

Waterways Ireland has responsibility for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of inland navigable waterways principally for recreational purposes. The waterways under the remit of the body are the Barrow Navigation, the Erne System, the Grand Canal, the Lower Bann, the Royal, the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the Shannon Navigation.

The headquarters for Waterways Ireland is in Enniskillen, and regional offices are located in Carrick-on-Shannon, Dublin and Scarriff.

Waterways Ireland Organisation Structure

About Waterways Ireland

Waterways Ireland is one of the six North/South Implementation Bodies established under the British Irish Agreement in 1999.

The headquarters for Waterways Ireland is in Enniskillen, and regional offices are located in Carrick-on-Shannon, Dublin and Scarriff.

Waterways Ireland Organisation Structure

The Shannon Erne Waterway

MARINE NOTICE 23/2010

Lock Maintenance

Closure of Locks Numbers 1 and 2

With reference to Marine Notice 3/2010, Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Shannon Erne Waterway that closure of Lock Number 1 at Corraquill and Lock 2 at Ballyconnell has been extended until 29th March 2010.

Further information may be had by contacting Mr Garret Mc Grath, Senior Engineer, on +353 (0)71 965 0566

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience that this may cause its customers.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
12 Mar 2010
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 19/2010

End of Winter Mooring Period

Masters and owners are advised that the winter mooring period ends on Wednesday 31 March 2010 thereafter Shannon Navigation Bye-law No. 17(3) applies i.e. vessels should not be berthed in the same harbour for longer than the statutory period of 5 consecutive days or more than a total of 7 days in any one month..

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
3 Mar 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 14/2010

LOCK 15 Tirmactiernan

CLOSURE

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users that the Shannon-Erne Waterway will be closed to navigation at Lock 15 Tirmactiernan from 16th February to 16th March 2010 to facilitate essential maintenance operations to the lock gates.
Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience that this may cause its customers.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
16 February 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 3/2010

Lock Maintenance

Lock No. 2 and No. 5 Closures

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Shannon-Erne Waterway of the following lock closures:

Lock 2 at Ballyconnell from 18th January 2010 to 16th March 2010

Lock 5 Ardrum from 15th January 2010 to 29th January 2010

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience that this may cause its customers.

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 Jan 2010
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

MARINE NOTICE 12/09

LOCK WAITING JETTIES

C. J. Lawn
Lt Cdr Rtd
Inspector of Navigation
20 Feb 2009

Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

10/05 Works At Hutchinsons

issued 24.02.10

Waterways Ireland Invests in the Lower Bann

Waterways Ireland is happy to confirm that work has begun on site at Hutchinsons Quay on the Lower Bann Navigation to install 30 metres of floating jetties.

The floating jetties form part of a �140,000 programme of work to be completed by March 2010. The jetties will be installed along with bank retention and access works and will also include a 6m canoe step. The facilities will add to waterway users experience of the Lower Bann in 2010.

The upgrade of facilities at Hutchinsons Quay forms part of a programme to upgrade facilities all along the Lower Bann. Works at Movanagher are also ongoing. The project has been designed and commissioned by Waterways Ireland. The works have been contracted to Brogan Civil Engineering of Gortin.

Charts and Guides

The Shannon Navigation

MARINE NOTICE 19/2010

End of Winter Mooring Period

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
3 Mar 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 13/2010

Inchinalee Island

Navigation Mark

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Shannon Navigation that the Red Porthand mark at the Southern end of Inchinalee Island, (approximately 10km south of Athlone) is leaning over and showing just above the water surface without its topmark.

Masters should navigate with due care when in the vicinity of this mark and remain near the channel centreline to avoid striking it.

Charlie Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
10 February 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 4/2010

Aids to Navigation Colour Change

Portumna Bridge to Meelick Lock

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Shannon Navigation that the black starboardhand marks on the Shannon Navigation are to be changed to the colour green.

This will be done on a phased basis commencing initially on that stretch of the navigation from Portumna Bridge to Meelick Lock. Mariners will be advised accordingly as the work progresses.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
19 Jan 2010
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 128/09

Connaught Harbour- Portumna

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise Masters and Owners that a barge with green topsides has sunk at the canal entrance to Connaught Harbour, the channel width is restricted and the vessel is a hazard to navigation.

Due care and attention is requested of Masters when navigating in the vicinity of this location.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
3 December 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 119/09

Killaloe/Ballina

Canal Improvement Works

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise Owners and Masters of all craft berthed in the canal north of the lock that planned improvement works will commence shortly. Initially this will consist of the installation of floating moorings followed by the underpinning of the canal walls and other associated works.

In order to facilitate this work, in particular, the underpinning of the canal walls, it will be necessary that all craft are removed from both canal banks so that work boats, pontoons and divers can freely access the work area.

Owners are therefore requested to remove their craft by 1st February 2010. Any Owners whose craft have sunk in the canal are asked to contact this office at their earliest convenience. Unregistered craft recovered during the course of the works will be disposed of by Waterways Ireland in accordance with the Shannon Navigation Bye-Laws (S.I.79 & 80 of 1992).

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience this may cause its customers during the period of these improvement works.

C J Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
5 Nov 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 6494232
Fax: +353 (0)90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 86/09

LIMERICK

ARDNACRUSHA LOCK

Masters and owners are advised that the Electricity Supply Board propose to close Ardnacrusha Lock from Thurs 1 Oct 2009 until Wed 31 Mar 2010, both dates inclusive, to carry out essential maintenance.

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
14 Aug 2009
Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 83/09

Meelick Quay

New Navigation Marks

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Shannon Navigation that two new Red (Port) navigation markers have been established downstream of Meelick Quay.

Please see attached chartlet for information.

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
7 Aug 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 6494232
Fax: +353 (0)90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 78/09

Lough Boderg - Derrycarne

Temporary Navigation Buoy

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Shannon Navigation that the most northerly black starboardhand buoy in the Derrycarne narrow has carried away and has been replaced by a temporary navigation buoy in the interim.

Masters are requested to navigate with due caution when in this stretch of the navigation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
23 Jul 2009
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 6/09

Ballina, Co.Tipperary

Mooring Jetties Out of Bounds due to Construction Work

The mooring jetties situated on the left bank south of the Killaloe-Ballina bridge where construction work is in progress are out of bounds to the public until further notice.

Masters and Owners of vessels should not berth at this facility until this notice is withdrawn.

Waterways Ireland thanks its customers for their cooperation in this matter and regrets any inconvenience that this may cause.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
23 Jan 2009
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

Environment and Heritage Policy

The inland waterways have intrinsic value as areas of ecological, archaeological, architectural, engineering and historic value; their size and geographical extent within Ireland are of regional and international significance. The success of Waterways Ireland's activities is dependent upon quality waterway environments.

Consequently, in order to encourage their use as navigation systems and as recreational environments that contribute to the social and economic status of the island, Waterways Ireland recognises the need to conserve and manage its designated network across the island, as resources of environmental and heritage significance and to promote the awareness of this significance to all.

In recognition of this, Waterways Ireland has developed an Interim Environment and Heritage Policy. The purpose of this document is to guide the development and management of the waterways in a sustainable manner whilst ensuring the protection of the environmental and heritage resource. Public consultation is an integral part of this process.

Phase I of this consultation period is now complete. Waterways Ireland would like to thank all those who took the time and effort to review this interim policy.

Environment and Heritage Policy

Phase I of this consultation period is now complete. Waterways Ireland would like to thank all those who took the time and effort to review this interim policy.

Tourist Information

Ireland's inland waterways can provide a unique experience for everyone. The natural environment provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural and outdoor activities. High adventure or total relaxation, the options are endless.

You can stay on a cruiser, take a boat out for a day or join a trip. The sign posted walkways will help work up an appetite allowing you to stop en route at the many pubs and restaurants along the way. Or you can take your bicycle along the towpaths and quiet country roads. For total relaxation why nto try casting a line into calm canal waters or the faster waters of the rivers and lakes.

Delve into the fascinating heritage of Ireland, which can be seen in ancient stones and circles, in monastic ruins and grand cathedrals, in stately homes and in the many museums, most of which are accessible from the waterways.

For sheer exhilaration have a go at some of the watersports on offer such as canoeing, kayaking, sailing, waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Whatever holiday you choose, the waterways, beautiful and varied, wait to be discovered.

10/04 Albert Lock on the Shann

issued 19.02.10

Works at Albert Lock on the Shannon Navigation Complete

Work has been ongoing over the winter period at Albert Lock on the Shannon Navigation to upgrade the jetties downstream of the lock.
It is the busiest lock on the Shannon, with approximately 10,000 boat passages per year going through the lock.

The programme of works were designed and undertaken by Waterways Ireland staff. They have included the removal of the time-expired timber jetties, which were replaced by 120m of wheelchair accessible floating jetties. Complimentary landscaping works in the area have also be undertaken.

Costing approximately €200,000, the works have been completed in time for the new season.

Investment in the maintenance and development of resources on the Shannon Navigation is key to the continuing promotion of the waterway as a tourism and recreational resource thereby meeting Waterways Ireland objectives while delivering for local business and residents alike.

Customer Feedback

Waterways Ireland is happy to receive feedback about our web-site and answer questions about our activity on the waterways. Please click on the link below to send your details to Waterways Ireland.

Feedback

09/45 WI Erne World Pike Fishi

WATERWAYS IRELAND ERNE WORLD OPEN PIKE FISHING CLASSIC 2009

The 2009 Waterways Ireland Erne World Open Pike Fishing Classic took place over the weekend 16 - 18 October on Lough Erne. The three day event consisting of one day bank-fishing competition, a boat fly-fishing competition and a two day boat-fishing competition.

389, a record number of entries were received from 17 different counties in Ireland, and anglers from England, France, Belgium and a competitor from the USA taking part. This is the fourth year of the event, which has been supported throughout by Waterway's Ireland as its main sponsor.

Competitors caught a total of 224 Pike during the event with individual fish of over 20lbs winning all three events. All fish were weighed and released unharmed.

The weekend started with the Bank and Fly Boat Events on Friday in excellent weather conditions on the River Erne around Enniskillen. Stephen Martin from Omagh, Co Tyrone took the �300 first prize in the boat fly fishing event with an outstanding fish of 20lbs 04ozs.
The Bank event, with 87 anglers took place on the river sections of Upper Lough Erne mainly in the town of Enniskillen. Local lad Dwayne Taylor from Ballinamallard Co Fermanagh, took top prize in the event of �800 with a fish of 20lbs 10ozs from the Round O Jetty section which he caught on dead bait Roach. Local angler Nick Seddon from Derrygonnelly Co Fermanagh won the cumulative prize of �600 with a 4 fish catch totalling 45lbs 2ozs from the Derrychara section

Day one of the Boat event produced two 19lbs fish with Local Lad Glen Hall from Maguiresbridge Co Fermanagh taking top spot and �600 with a fish of 19lbs 13ozs caught on dead bait Smelt, closely followed by Tony Callan from Co Louth, who won �400 for his 19lbs 5ozs fish.
Day two saw another three big fish landed. George Hunter, Irvinestown Co Fermanagh took a fish of 19lbs 6ozs (�400) and Chris Lonsdale from Norfolk landing a fish of 17lbs 12ozs (�300).

But the best was still to come, as the event drew to a close local angler Donal Maguire from Enniskillen was fishing near Enniskillen Castle in the last hour of the event, when he hooked into the fish that would win him the coveted World Pike fishing title. Donal fittingly caught the biggest Pike of the weekend of 20lbs 11ozs to pick up the winning cheque for �3,600.

In the overall standings Glen Hall's fish from Saturday earned him an additional �1,000 for second overall and George Hunter gained an additional �750 for his Sunday fish in third.

Chris Lonsdale and Carl Reilly from Norfolk won the cumulative Boat prize (�600) with a catch of 4 fish for 42lbs 13ozs, with two Fermanagh boats of John Brazil and Barry Cornyn second (�400) with 8 fish for 41lbs 7ozs and Glen Hall and Jonny Fallis third (�200) with 4 fish for 40lbs 6ozs.

This year for the first time the organisers had introduced a 4 man Inter County/ International team event with �1,000 going to the winning team. As this was the first year that County Fermanagh anglers had featured so prominently in the main prize list it was highly appropriate that the local team from Enniskillen consisting of John Brazil, Dwayne Taylor, George Hunter and Barry Cornyn would take the prize with a 10 fish total of 66lbs 10ozs.

The weekend concluded with a prize giving in the Killyhevlin Hotel where Erne Anglers club Secretary Jack Tisdall thanked all the main sponsors Waterway's Ireland for their support. He also thanked Fermanagh District Council and DCAL (Fishery owners) for their continued help in the organisation of the event including the stewarding.

Jack commented "the Waterways Ireland Erne World Pike Classic is without doubt the premier Pike Angling event in the world, with a total of �14,600 in cash prize money as well as Crystal and tackle prizes."

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications at Waterways Ireland was on hand to give out the prizes and commented... "Waterways Ireland is very proud to be associated with this prestigious competition and congratulations to all the Anglers who participated in both the on-shore and the boat fishing events. Waterways Ireland is particularly pleased that this year's event has grown so much in popularity, bringing competitors from both sides of the border as well as from much further afield. We are delighted that so many, old friends and new, have experienced the outstanding fishing that the Erne has to offer.
While the largest fish caught this weekend have been impressive enough at 20lbs, we look forward to welcoming many anglers back next year to catch the even bigger pike we know are out there".

Councillor Bertie Kerr Chairman of Fermanagh District Council said "the Council prides itself in developing events in the county and it is pleasing that our natural resources are being used in a sympathetic way to further develop our tourist product. This is the fourth time this event has been held in Fermanagh and I understand there is record entry with anglers from mainland UK and Europe participating. I believe the competition is one of the most prestigious pike angling events in the world and we hope that the standards set by the Erne event will be a benchmark for others".

Keith Collen, Recreation Officer for Fermanagh District Council went on to say "the response to the Erne competition has been outstanding , the anglers really enjoyed the 2009 event, although there are always a few things which we would reassess for future events we believe that the competition has a good foundation for development."

The event was enjoyed by all competitors and all fish we successfully returned alive and unharmed to the Erne. The organisers ensured that fish welfare was paramount during the competition and best practice was employed when handling the fish under the supervision of stewards, including DCAL staff.

The event was sponsored by Waterways Ireland and organised by the Erne Anglers Angling Club, Fermanagh District Council and the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure, Inland Fisheries Division.

WI Sponsorship Deadline Ext

The deadline for receipt of completed applications for the Waterways Ireland 2010 Sponsorship Programme has been extended by 14 days until the 17th December 2009 at 3pm. The programme is designed to increase recreational waterway and waterside activity and events. The deadline has been extended to facilitate potential applicants affected by recent unprecedented high water levels.

The programme aims to encourage increasing numbers of people to experience something new about the waterways.

Applications are open to anyone wishing to run recreational waterway and waterside events. Application packs can be downloaded by opening the following link http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/2010WISponsorshi Terms and conditions apply. The closing date for the receipt of completed applications is 17 December 2009 at 3pm.

Royal Canal Boat Hire

Cruiser and Barge Hire on the Royal Canal

Royal Canal Cruisers
Mob no +353 (0)87 243 9448
Email info@royalcanalcruisers.com
Web www.royalcanalcruisers.com

Things to Do in Fermanagh

Please click here to view:

Things to do in Fermanagh

Code of Practice

Freedom of Information Code of Practice

A copy of the Code of Practice is also available by e-mail at:

informationrequest@waterwaysireland.org

or in hard copy by contacting:

Strategy and Policy Section
2 Sligo Road
ENNISKILLEN
BT74 6JY
Tel no +44 (0)28 6632 3004

Canoeing

Ireland, North and South, has a lot of offer the recreational paddler from the wide open lakes of Lough Erne, Lough Allen, Lough Derg and Lough Ree to the meandering channels of the Lower Bann and the Shannon Navigation, and the still waters of the Grand and Royal Canals, the Barrow Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway.

On the Erne System a way-marked canoe trail has been put in place, and one is planned for the Barrow Navigation and the Lower Bann Navigation.

Clubs offer the newcomer both learning and opportunities to participate with others. Many outdoor centres along the navigations also offer opportunities to learn and improve skills. Hire of canoeing equipment is also widely available

The governing body for canoeing in Northern Ireland is the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland and can be contacted at CANI, Unit 2 river's Edge, 13-15 Ravenhill Rd, Belfast BT6 8DN
Tel no 0870 240 5065 Email office@cani.org.uk Website www.cani.org.uk.

In the Republic of Ireland, canoeing is governed by the Irish Canoe Union, and they can be contacted at Sport HQ, Joyce Way, Park West Business Park, Nangor Rd, Dublin 12 Tel no 00 353 1 6241105 Email office@irishcanoeunion.com

No.17 Marine Notice 2008

SHANNON HARBOUR TOURISM PROJECT 2008

BERTHING RESTRICTIONS AT SHANNON HARBOUR

WATERWAYS IRELAND WISH TO ADVISE MASTERS AND OWNERS OF VESSELS ON THE GRAND CANAL THAT MAJOR DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE WORKS ARE PLANNED FOR SHANNON HARBOUR IN THE AREA BETWEEN GRIFFITH BRIDGE AND THE DRY DOCKS.

MASTERS AND OWNERS OF VESSELS ARE REQUESTED TO MOVE THEIR VESSELS FROM THE ABOVE AREA BY 31st MAY 2008 AND REFRAIN FROM BERTHING AT THIS LOCATION UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

WATERWAYS IRELAND THANKS YOU FOR YOUR CO-OPERATION IN THIS MATTER AND REGRETS ANY INCONVENIENCE CAUSED.

FURTHER INFORMATION MAY BE HAD FROM:

WATERWAYS IRELAND OFFICE -TULLAMORE 057-935 23 00

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr RNS
Inspector of Navigation
14 April 2008

Erne - Pike Fishing Classic

Hopefully it's Catching - The Waterways Ireland Erne International Pike Fishing Classic

The 2nd Waterways Ireland Erne International Pike Fishing Classic takes place from Friday 19th October to Sunday 21st October on the River Erne around Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh.

The three-day event consists of a one-day shore fishing competition on Friday 19th October when anglers will be positioned at the fishing stands around Enniskillen. On Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st, the action moves to the water with a boat fishing event taking place from Portora Gates to Carrybridge and Innishmore Viaduct.

A prize fund of �14,000 is on offer with prizes for each of the days of the competition and an overall prize for the two-day boat competition. Between 300 and 500 anglers are expected to take part from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and mainland Europe.

The 2006 shore based event was won by local angler Barry Dickson with a pike of 16lb 4oz and the heaviest fish over the 2 day boat competition was won by Co. Longford angler Dave Roache with an impressive fish of 22lb 3oz.

The event is organised by the Erne Anglers Angling Club with support from Waterways Ireland, Fermanagh District Council and DCAL Inland Fisheries.

For further information and entry forms contact Cloughbally Mill Angling Centre, Enniskillen at +44 (0)28 6632 2008 or Home, Field & Stream, Enniskillen at +44 (0)28 6632 2114.

- Ends -

For further information contact:
Mark Lichtenberg, Organising committee, +44 (0)28 6632 2008, or
Katrina Mc Girr, Waterways Ireland, +44 (0)28 6634 6205

Date: 17.08.2007
PR07015

Annual Reports

Annual business and financial reports and funding agreements:


Title	Section	Class

Annual Report 2001	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Annual Report 2002	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Annual Report 2003	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Annual Report 2004	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Annual Report 2005	Corporate Services	Our Organisation
Annual Report 2006	Corporate Services	Our Organisation

Click on any of the publications above to download.

2007 Press Releases

Rooskey Weir Boom

Waterways Ireland Carries out Upgrading Work on Shannon Navigation at Roosky

Waterways Ireland, as part of a planned programme of maintenance is installing a floating Weir Boom across the weir in Roosky on the River Shannon.

Work has already begun with the assembly of the boom on Roosky Dry Dock. On Friday the 21 November pontoons were floated down to the weir to facilitate the drilling for the piles which will hold the Weir Boom in place. The 70m Weir Boom floated down the river on Monday 24th November and will take one week to install. Works will be completed by the 28 November 2008. The cost of the works is approximately €100,000 with the majority of the works being carried out by Waterways Ireland staff.

The Weir Boom is a preventative measure by Waterways Ireland to protect boaters and their craft from being drawn over the weir and will prevent the sluices from getting blocked with large floating objects such as tree branches. Space has been left to allow for the passage of canoeists. There will be no environmental impacts on fish or other wildlife from the installation or operation of the Weir Boom.

For further information contact
Waterways Ireland
Engineer: Annette Nally Tel no (0)87 9270797
Press Office: Katrina Mc Girr Tel no (0)87 991 8412

Launch of Pike Fishing Classic

LAUNCH OF THE WATERWAYS IRELAND
ERNE INTERNATIONAL PIKE FISHING CLASSIC 2006

The Inaugural Waterways Ireland Erne International Pike Fishing Classic Competition takes place from Friday 20th October to Sunday 22nd October on the River Erne in and around the town of Enniskillen.

The three day event will consist of one day shore fishing on Friday 20th October when anglers will be positioned at the fishing stands around Enniskillen. On Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd, the action moves to the water with a boat fishing event taking place from Portora gates to Carrybridge and Innismore Viaduct.

Prize money will be on offer for each of the days of the competition with an overall prize for the 2 Day boat competition. The competition has been widely advertised through leading specialist angling magazines in Ireland and the UK and between 300 and 500 anglers are expected to take part from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and mainland Europe.

The event is being organised by the Erne Anglers Angling Club with support from Waterways Ireland, Fermanagh District Council and DCAL Inland Fisheries. The Erne Anglers Angling Club hope to turn this Pike fishing competition into a major event attracting over 1,000 additional bed nights to the local economy in the first year.

At the launch Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland, spoke of the significance of the event. He said, "This competition will be a major calendar event for anglers and as it is taking place at the end of the traditional tourism season, will provide a boost to the local economy while also showcasing the fantastic waterways of Fermanagh."

Councillor John O'Kane, Chairman of Fermanagh District Council said,
"This is the first major pike angling event to be held in Fermanagh, it is pleasing that our natural resources are being used in a sympathetic way to further develop our tourist product, I understand there is a large entry and that anglers from mainland Europe have expressed an interest in competing. I wish all competitors and organisers every success."

Further information and entry forms are available from the Cloughbally Mill Angling Centre, Enniskillen at +44 28 66322 008.

- ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 12.10.2006
PR06027

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland with Councillor John O'Kane, Chairman of Fermanagh District Council at Enniskillen Castle

Advertising Campaign a Success

MAJOR BILLBOARD CAMPAIGN A SUCCESS

Waterways Ireland, the body responsible for the inland navigations on the island of Ireland is delighted to announce today that the major advertising campaign launched in July was a huge success.

The campaign consisted of a series of five adverts centred on the themes of relaxation, exhilaration, contentment, character and nature which promote different aspects of the waterways such as boating, water sports, angling, heritage and nature. The adverts were specifically produced to drive business through the award winning Waterways Ireland website and on to the many links contained therein.

Over the four week period of the campaign the average daily number of hits to the Waterways Ireland website doubled in comparison to previous months.

"Almost 1 million hits were recorded on the website providing a gateway into the many activities, events and sports available on Ireland's Inland Waterways", said Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland.

The adverts were displayed on billboards and adshel facilities in over 100 locations across Belfast, Coleraine, Enniskillen, Dublin, Limerick, Athlone and Carrick-on-Shannon.

PDF's of the adverts and other information can be viewed at: www.waterwaysireland.org.

- ends -

For further information, contact the Waterways Ireland Press Office at +353 71 9650787 or +353 87 9918412

Date: 18.08.2006
PR06024

Walking

Walking, for leisure, pleasure or for health is the most predominant activity along the banks of Ireland's inland waterways. Whether walking into town from a mooring, or walking along one of the Waymarked Ways along the waterways which include the Lough Derg Way, the Barrow Way, the Grand Canal Way, the Royal Canal Way, Sl� Liatroma, the Miners' Way Historical Trail and the Cavan Way, the presence of the waterway adds an indefinable extra to the experience.

For information on the way-marked ways contact the
National Way-Marked Ways Advisory Committee, Irish Sports Council, Top Floor, Block A, West End Office Park, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, Tel no 0353 1 8608800 Email info@sportscouncil.ie

Legislation

Waterways Ireland, the North / South Implementation Body for the inland navigable waterways systems, was established in 1999. As provided for in the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, the Body was formally 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.

For the North/South Co-operation (Implementation Bodies) (Northern Ireland) Order, 1999 in full log onto:

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si1999/19992062.htm

For the British - Irish Agreement Act 1999 in full log onto:

http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/ZZA1Y1999.html

Proposed Office Public Meeting

WATERWAYS IRELAND NEW REGIONAL OFFICE IN CARRICK ON SHANNON

PUBLIC MEETING

On Tuesday 6th September, Waterways Ireland organised a public meeting in the Landmark Hotel in Carrick on Shannon to consider views of interested parties as part of the consultation process for the proposed new Regional Office for Waterways Ireland in Cortober, Carrick on Shannon

Approximately 280 local residents and interested parties attended the meeting to provide feedback on the proposed building and its location. During the meeting, presentations were made by Waterways Ireland and the OPW. A model of the building along with drawings and plans were also on display. The two hour meeting was an opportunity for Waterways Ireland to listen to all comments and concerns regarding the proposed building and location, which will now be accorded due consideration before a final decision on whether or not to proceed to planning stages is made.

Waterways Ireland, the largest of the North/South Implementation Bodies established following the British-Irish Agreement in 1999, is responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway systems.

Following a meeting of the North South Ministerial Council in June 2000, it was agreed that the Northern Regional Office for Waterways Ireland would be located in Carrick on Shannon in recognition of the strategic importance of the waterside town and the contribution of the waterway to the local economy. The Waterways Ireland Northern Region encompasses the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the Erne System and the Lower Bann Navigation (which runs from Lough Neagh, north to the sea at Coleraine). In addition, the Northern Regional office will be the base for North Shannon Operations and Marketing and Communications staff.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 07.09.2005
PR050023

Proposed Office Public Meeting

WATERWAYS IRELAND NEW REGIONAL OFFICE IN CARRICK ON SHANNON

PUBLIC MEETING

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 07.09.2005
PR050023

Lakelands and Inland Waterways

Launch of Lakelands & Inland Waterways

Waterways Ireland along with Failte Ireland, Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism, Tourism Ireland, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Shannon Development have joined together to develop a marketing and product development initiative for the lakelands and waterways.

This initiative which links Belleek in Co. Fermanagh with Limerick, encompasses the Erne System, the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the Shannon Navigation and is a unique collaboration between Waterways Ireland and the various promotional and tourism agencies along the waterways both North and South.

The project was officially launched by Tanaiste and Minister of Finance Mr Brian Cowen, TD on Friday 12th October at the Clonmacnoise Heritage Centre on the banks of the Shannon in Co. Offaly.

For further details please check out the website www.discoverireland.ie/lakelands

Re-opening Termonbarry Bridge

Termonbarry Bridge Reopens Early After Essential Rehabilitation Works

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise that the lifting bridge, which carries the N5 over the River Shannon at Termonbarry on the Co. Longford / Co. Roscommon border, reopened to traffic (vehicles and pedestrians) from Sunday 30th November at 2pm.

Termonbarry Bridge required essential rehabilitation and repair work to maintain the safety and operation of the bridge, and with associated road works, was expected to require a ten day closure. Works went smoothly and were completed ahead of schedule. Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience caused by the closure.

The rehabilitation works cost €147,000 and consisted of improving the vertical alignment at the lifting span and essential waterproofing works. The replacement of existing bearings, mechanical and electrical units also formed part of the rehabilitation works. The co-operation of Longford County Council and Roscommon County Council is much appreciated.

Works were undertaken by L&M Keating Ltd, Kilmihill, Co. Clare.

For Further information contact
Mr Conor Marrinan L&M Keating Ltd: Project Liaison Officer Tel no +353 (0)86 600 9080
Waterways Ireland Senior Engineer: Peter Graham Tel no +44 (0)79 1959 6492
Waterways Ireland Press Office: Katrina Mc Girr Tel no +353 (0)87 991 8412

Kilglass;moorings

NEW MOORINGS AT KILGLASS, CO ROSCOMMON

John Martin, Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland is delighted to announce that work has recently been completed on a scheme to provide new moorings and upgrade the amenity area at Kilglass, on the Shannon Navigation.

The moorings are located on Kilglass Lake approximately 4km north of the Scramoge junction on the Rooskey Road in Co Roscommon. Waterways Ireland took over responsibility for the management and maintenance of the Kilglass Moorings at the end of 2006.

During the upgrade works, the old fixed wooden jetties were replaced with new floating jetties which can accommodate up to 10 boats. In addition, a floating breakwater was installed to provide added protection to moored boats from the prevailing winds across Kilglass Lake. A six metre wide modern slipway was also constructed as part of the works.

The amenity area was enhanced with the addition of picnic tables and environmentally sensitive lighting along with an extended car-park which includes spaces for wheelchair users.

The total cost of the project was approximately €380,000. Waterways Ireland has a programme of ongoing investment in upgrading and developing facilities on the Shannon Navigation. The Shannon Navigation, which includes the River Shannon and its lakes, is navigable over a distance of 215 km from Lough Allen, Co Leitrim to the sea at Limerick.

Waterways Ireland would like to acknowledge the assistance of adjacent landowners and Roscommon County Council for their contributions to the improvements to the car parking facilities.

Waterways Ireland is the North/South Implementation Body responsible for managing, maintaining, developing and restoring the inland navigable waterways throughout the island.

- ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 17.08.2007
PR07015

Waterways Ireland Moorings at Kilglass Co. Roscommon

09/44 Waterways Ireland Taste

Press Release Issued 15.10.09

Waterways Ireland Taste of the Waterways Prize awarded to Cafe Merlot, Enniskillen

The Taste of the Waterways Award winner 'Cafe Merlot' was revealed on Thursday October, 15th 2009 by Georgina Campbell.

Presenting the Taste of the Waterways Award to 'Cafe Merlot' in Enniskillen, Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland stated "I am particularly delighted to present this Taste of the Waterways Award and to commend Georgina Campbell on her choice. I have experienced Cafe Merlot hospitality over the years and believe them to be a deserving winner".

The Taste of the Waterways Award was introduced in 2008 with the Oarsman in Carrick-on-Shannon taking the honours. The Taste of Waterways is a publication produced by Waterways Ireland in partnership with Georgina Campbell highlighting the excellent hospitality of the waterway experience. The guide is free and updated regularly with Georgina's selection of establishments of all kinds serving food and hospitality all along the inland waterways.

Martin Dennany commenting on the guide stated 'The judging criteria and standard of assessment for the Taste of the Waterways Georgina Campbell guide is very high, with selection made on merit alone: no payment is charged for entry, no payments accepted for advertising. For the Waterways Ireland Award Winner, Cafe Merlot this is exciting company in which to lead the field.'
Georgina Campbell highlighted that 'As a team, Gerry Russell and Johnny Donnelly present creative modern cooking, a relaxed dining atmosphere, a great wine list and knowledgeable service; they also operate the newer cafe/deli/wine shop Russell & Donnelly, just along the street. All round, a great place to know about - congratulations are in order.'
On winning the award the Cafe Merlot team of Johnny Donnelly and Gerry Russell celebrated. Johnny Donnelly stated 'I would like to thank Waterways Ireland and Georgina Campbell for the Taste of the Waterways Award in recognition of all our hard work, high standards and customer service'

Grand Canal Boat Hire

Cruiser and Barge Hire on the Grand Canal

Barrowline Cruisers
Tel no +353 (0)57 862 6060
Email barrowline@eircom.net
Web www.barrowline.com

Canalways Ireland Barge Holidays
Mobile +353 (0)87 243 3879
Email canalholidays@eircom.net
Web www.canalways.ie

2006 Press Releases

ARCHIVE:

Launch of the Waterways Ireland Sponsorship Programme 2007	02.11.06	Press Release
New Moorings at Kilglass	23.10.06	Press Release
Erne International Pike Fishing Classic 2006	23.10.06	Press Release
Launch of Waterways stamps	20.10.06	Press Release
Launch of International Pike Fishing Classic	12.10.06	Press Release
Shannon Navigation Proposal	30.08.06	Press Release
Royal Canal Restoration	26.08.06	Press Release
Successful Billboard Campaign	18.08.06	Press Release
Water Ski World Cup 2006	14.08.06	Press Release
New Scarriff Regional Office	04.08.06	Press Release
Find Summer Fun in Fermanagh	31.07.06	Press Release
Billboard Advertising Campaign	20.07.06	Press Release
Refurbishment of Quay Area at Ardanaffrin Bridge near Jamestown Complete	14.07.06	Press Release
Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006	09.07.06	Press Release
Launch of Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006	29.06.06	Press Release
IFYE Lakeland Activity Day	29.06.06	Press Release
Cootehall Fishing Competition	26.06.06	Press Release
Launch of An t-Suca Fiain in Ballinasloe	26.06.06	Press Release
Riverside Amenity Park Launch, Carrick-on-Shannon	20.06.06	Press Release
Guidelines on Water Safety	09.06.06	Press Release
Goldeneye T Awards 2006	19.05.06	Press Release
Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival Results	12.05.06	Press Release
Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival Day 2	11.05.06	Press Release
Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival Day 1	09.05.06	Press Release
New Waterways Ireland Moorings in Carrick-on-Shannon	08.05.06	Press Release
Waterways Ireland's Good Boat Guide	05.05.06	Press Release
What's On 2006	27.04.06	Press Release
'On the Water' Show 2006	26.04.06	Press Release
Launch of Classic Fishing Festival 2006	06.03.06	Press Release
Launch of New Waterways Ireland Website	13.01.06	Press Release
London Boat Show 2006	06.01.06	Press Release

Lower Bann Planned Works

2009 Capital Projects

Camus, Co. Londonderry (Project Completed)

Construction of a fixed jetty facility and canoe step with ramp access to meet accessibility standards.

Portglenone, Co. Antrim (Project Completed)

Replacement of existing floating pontoon and provision of a new gangway to meet accessibility requirements. Carrying out of bank protection works and erection of appropriate signage at the site.

Navigation Information

As the navigation authority responsible for the management of over 1,000 km of inland waterways in Ireland, Waterways Ireland is responsible for facilitating and encouraging recreational use on the waterways.

Waterways Ireland would like to encourage responsible use of the waterways. The links below will bring you directly to navigation information for each of the waterways under our remit.

Shannon Erne Waterway

Erne System

Grand Canal

Barrow Navigation

Lower Bann Navigation

Royal Canal

Shannon Navigation

Navigation Bye-Laws

Abridged Bye-Laws for the Erne System

Abridged Bye-Laws for the Shannon Navigation

Canals Act 1986 (Bye-Laws) 1988

Canals Act 1986

Canals Act 1986 (Vesting Day) Order 1986

Special Notice to Mariners

The Grand Canal

MARINE NOTICE 22/2010

Canal obstruction cleared between 15th Lock & Sallins

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise that the navigation 600 metres east of Sallins which was obstructed has now been cleared and the canal is open to navigation.

Marine Notice 130/09 is now withdrawn.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
12 Mar 2010
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 18/2010

Monasterevin Lifting Bridge

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Grand Canal & Barrow Navigation that the lifting bridge at Monasterevin on the Barrow Line of the Grand Canal is being replaced.

The Barrow Line is now closed to navigation and is scheduled to be rewatered during the week beginning March 20th however the replacement bridge will not be fully operational until April 10th and will have to be lifted manually.

Navigation between March 20th and April 10th will therefore be restricted and passage will not normally be possible at weekends or outside working hours.

Masters wishing to make a passage through the bridge are requested to make prior contact with the Lock Keeper, Mr Joe Moore on +353 (0)87 247 3093 for up to date information.

Waterways Ireland thanks its customers for their co-operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
24 Feb 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 130/09

Navigation obstructed between 15th Lock and Sallins

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and Users of the Grand Canal that due to emergency flood alleviation works by Kildare County Council, navigation 600 metres east of Sallins is restricted until further notice.

Waterways Ireland is working to remedy the navigation obstruction as soon as possible and any inconvenience that this may cause our customers is regretted.

Further queries may be directed to the Eastern Regional Office on
Tel no +353 (0)1 868 0148.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
9 December 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 117/09

SHANNON HARBOUR "5 DAY RULE"

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and users of the Grand Canal that the provisions of S.I. No. 24/1988: Canals Act, 1986 Bye Law (25 ,1 (d)) will be enforced on all hard edged moorings in the Shannon Harbour area with effect from 1 Mar 2010. This area is deemed to be between 35th Lock Eastwards to Griffith Bridge. The bye-law states that:

"No person shall moor a boat 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"

Vessels should only moor directly onto quay walls and not double and triple berth.
This will ensure a clear and safe channel for navigation and facilitate the movement of vessels in the harbour and also those wishing to continue with a through passage.

Vessels in contravention of this bye-law will be moved East or West of the area as space becomes available. Non-permitted vessels will also be moved.

Owners and Masters of vessels are requested to comply with the bye-law provision so that a greater number of vessels can avail of the refurbished and enhanced facilities.

Moorings are available from 35th West to 36th and East of Griffith Bridge to 34th Lock.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
30 Oct 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 113/09

Dredging on the Grand Canal Circular Line

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters and users of the Grand Canal that the Circular Line from Lock 1 (Grand Canal Street) to Lock 5 (Leeson Street) will be closed to navigation from Monday 2nd November 2009 for the winter season.

This is to accommodate dredging to the canal channel.

Any inconvenience that this may cause our customers is regretted.

Please direct further queries to our Eastern Regional Office on Tel no +353 (0) 1 868 0148.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
28 October 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 6494232
Fax: +353 (0)90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 82/09

High Rainfall

Masters and owners are reminded that following periods of prolonged rainfall or localised thunderstorms that high flow rates, increased current speeds and water turbulence especially in the vicinity of bridges, weirs, locks, flood gates and other infrastructure will be hazardous to craft and persons on or near the navigation. Air draft at bridges will be reduced as water levels rise also.

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
30 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 6494232
Fax: +353 (0)90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

MARINE NOTICE 12/09

LOCK WAITING JETTIES

C. J. Lawn
Lt Cdr Rtd
Inspector of Navigation
20 Feb 2009

Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 52/08

Manual Operations of Canal Locks

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters and users of the waterways that manual lock operations should be undertaken bearing the following in mind.

1. As soon as possible after entry to a lock chamber, secure the boat with a bow and stern line to the posts, bollards or rings provided for that purpose.
2. Do not attempt to open or close the gates of any lock other than by means provided for that purpose.
3. Do not attempt to open or close the gates of any lock before the water level on either side of the gates is level.
4. Do not operate any sluice until the lock gates are closed.
5. Do ensure that, whenever there is more than one boat in a lock at the same time, the engine of each boat is switched off before the lock gates are closed and remains switched off until the lock gates are opened to allow the egress of the boats.
6. Do not leave your lock key on the spindle of the paddle gear when it is not being used. Paddle gear can slip, especially if the gate moves with the change in water pressure, and a heavy metal lock key spinning off of its spindle can cause serious injury or damage.
7. Closely monitor the boat as it rises or falls in the lock to ensure it does not become caught on the gates, cill or other part of the lock.
8. Never leave a boat unattended while a lock fills or empties.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

HEAVY MACHINERY

Boat owners and all other users of the waterways are reminded that no cranes or heavy machines can be brought onto the banks of the Grand Canal, the Royal Canal or the Barrow Navigation without the written permission of the Eastern Regional Office of Waterways Ireland. This is to protect the banks of these waterways from damage by such machines.

Shane Anderson
Lt Cdr RNS
Assistant Inspector of Navigation

Tel: 00 353 (0) 90 6494232
Fax: 00 353 (0) 87 2865726

Marine Notices

A listing of Current Marine Notices issued by Waterways Ireland

Lower Bann Navigation	Entrance to Lower Bann Navigation	Marine Notice 1/2010
	Bann Head of the River Race	Marine Notice 107/09
	Procedure for passing mooring ropes to lock-keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Lock Opening Hours	Marine Notice 53/09
	Lock Waiting Jetties	Marine Notice 12/09

Erne System	Enniskillen Head of the River Race	Marine Notice 21/2010
	Aids to Navigation	Marine Notice 5/2010
	Temporary closure of public jetties and sewage pumpouts	Marine Notice 131/09
	Naan Island Public Jetty	Marine Notice 111/09
	Walkway Refurbishment at Erneside Shopping Centre	Marine Notice 99/09
	Procedures for passing mooring ropes to lock keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Lock Waiting Jetties	Marine Notice 12/09

Shannon-Erne Waterway	Closure of Locks 1 and 2 extended	Marine Notice 23/2010
	End of Winter Mooring period	Marine Notice 19/2010
	Lock 15 Tirmactiernan	Marine Notice 14/2010
	Lock Closures	Marine Notice 3/2010
	Procedures for passing mooring ropes to lock keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Lock Waiting Jetties	Marine Notice 12/09

Shannon Navigation	End of Winter Mooring period	Marine Notice 19/2010
	Inchinalee Island - Navigation Marker	Marine Notice 13/2010
	Aids to Navigation Colour Change	Marine Notice 4/2010
	Rooskey Lifting Bridge	Marine Notice 129/09
	Sunken Barge - Connaught Harbour	Marine Notice 128/09
	Killaloe/Ballina - Canal Improvement Works	Marine Notice 119/09
	Ardnacrusha Lock	Marine Notice 86/09
	Meelick Quay - New Navigation Markers	Marine Notice 83/09
	Lough Boderg Derrycarne - Temporary Navigation Marker	Marine Notice 78/09
	Procedures for passing mooring ropes to lock keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Mooring Jetties at Ballina	Marine Notice 06/09

Grand Canal	Sallins - Marine Notice 130/09 withdrawn	Marine Notice 22/2010
	Monasterevin Lifting Bridge	Marine Notice 18/2010
	Sallins - obstruction to navigation	Marine Notice 130/09
	Bank Repairs between 13th and 14th Lock	Marine Notice 127/09
	36th Lock Shannon Harbour	Marine Notice 124/09
	Shannon Harbour 5 Day Rule	Marine Notice 117/09
	Bank Repairs between 13th and 14th Lock	Marine Notice 115/09
	Dredging from Lock 1 - Lock 5	Marine Notice 113/09
	Procedures for passing mooring ropes to lock keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Lock Waiting Jetties	Marine Notice 12/09
	Manual Operation of Canal Locks	Marine Notice 52/08
	Machinery on the Grand Canal, Royal Canal & Barrow Navigation	Heavy Machinery

Royal Canal	Maynooth	Marine Notice 15/2010
	11th/12th Lock - Temporary Bridge	Marine Notice 94/09
	Procedures for passing mooring ropes to lock keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Lock Waiting Jetties	Marine Notice 12/09
	Manual Operation of Canal Locks	Marine Notice 52/08
	Machinery on the Grand Canal, Royal Canal & Barrow Navigation	Heavy Machinery

Barrow Navigation	Winter Dredging from Lock 21 - Lock 22	Marine Notice 112/09
	Procedures for passing mooring ropes to lock keepers	Marine Notice 74/09
	Lock Waiting Jetties	Marine Notice 12/09
	Manual Operation of Canal Locks	Marine Notice 52/08
	Machinery on the Grand Canal, Royal Canal & Barrow Navigation	Heavy Machinery

General Marine Notices	Special Marine Notice 2010	Special Marine Notice

10/03 Graiguenamanagh Quay Wal

19.02.10

Waterways Ireland works at Graiguenamanagh underway

Remedial works on the quay wall in Graiguenamanagh on the Barrow Navigation have been underway since early January and are expected to be complete by mid March 2010 in time for the boating season.

The works, designed and commissioned by Waterways Ireland, have involved the dewatering of a 120m section of the quay wall. Where the wall had subsided it is being carefully rebuilt using reclaimed stonework from the ruined wall. In other locations along the wall re-pointing by traditional methods has been undertaken to ensure its continued strength.

The works are being carried out by Ward & Burke Construction Ltd from Kilcolgin, Co Galway.

10/02 Waterways Ireland at Lon

issued 19.02.10

Waterways Ireland Exhibits at the London Boat Show 2010

Amid the worst winter conditions for many years, Waterways Ireland exhibited at the London Boat Show in January 2010. Attendance surged strongly at the latter part of the show, making for an exceedingly busy final weekend.

The average number of visitor to the stand each year (approx 4000) was boosted this year by a large number of people interested in the New Year BBC television broadcast of the 'Three Men Go to Ireland' where comedians, Daragh O Briain, Rory Mc Grath and Griff Rhys Jones travelled along the Grand and Royal Canals and the Shannon Navigation. The two 1 hour programmes were filmed in October 2009 highlighting the waterways during some of the best weather experienced all year.

Waterways Ireland attended the show hosting the boat hire companies; Barrowline Cruisers, Carrick Craft, Corraquil Cruising, Emerald Star, Shannon Private Cruisers, and Silverline Cruisers. The companies all benefitted greatly from the increase in definite interest in boating in Ireland. The boat hire companies also provided boating holidays as prizes for competition entries throughout the show, maximising the interest of show attendees.

Also visiting the stand was World Cup Champion Water Skier Jodie Fisher; a good friend to Waterways Ireland and winner over a period of years of the Water Ski World Cup on the Erne System.

The Royal Canal

MARINE NOTICE 15/2010

MAYNOOTH

Waterways Ireland wishes to remind all Masters and Users of the Royal Canal in Maynooth that an obstruction exists on the north bank west of Maynooth Harbour (site of old C.I.E. foot bridge). Masters and owners should observe the signs placed on the remaining wooden support columns indicating the safe channel.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
17 February 2010

Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 94/09

11th/12th Lock Dublin Area - Temporary Bridge

Masters and Owners are advised that a temporary bridge has been put in place immediately downstream of the M50 aqueduct on the Royal Canal between the 11th and 12th Lock. This bridge is to facilitate pedestrians during ongoing construction works at the M50 / N3 junction and will cause some restrictions to navigation.
Anyone requiring passage through this area should contact Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (353 1 868 0148), giving 24 hours notice (48 hours notice for weekends), and passage will be arranged as required.

Waterways Ireland thanks its customers for their cooperation
in this matter.

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr rtd
Inspector of Navigation
28 Aug 2009
Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

MARINE NOTICE 12/09

LOCK WAITING JETTIES

C. J. Lawn
Lt Cdr Rtd
Inspector of Navigation
20 Feb 2009

Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 52/08

Manual Operations of Canal Locks

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters and users of the waterways that manual lock operations should be undertaken bearing the following in mind.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

HEAVY MACHINERY

Shane Anderson
Lt Cdr RNS
Assistant Inspector of Navigation

Tel: 00 353 (0) 90 6494232
Fax: 00 353 (0) 87 2865726

Royal Canal Planned Works

Planned Capital Projects 2009

Royal Canal Dredging Project (Project Ongoing)

Waterways Ireland proposes to dredge the Royal Canal from Lock 1 at the North Strand Road Bridge to Lock 6 at Cabra. John Paul Construction has been appointed to undertake the works on site.

Works will commence in mid November 2009 and are expected to be completed by the end of December 2009. Additional work to the canal may be awarded to the levels between Lock 6 and Lock 8 depending on funding and rate of progress. All works to be completed to ensure full restoration of the canal navigation by the end of February 2010. Work will commence from Lock 1 at the North Strand Road and progress level by level in a westerly direction.

A Taste of the Waterways

Waterways Ireland is delighted to sponsor "A Taste of the Waterways", the guide to favourite places to eat along the waterways. The guide includes over 100 independently assessed restaurants and hostelries along the Barrow Navigation, the Erne System, the Grand Canal, Lower Bann, the Royal Canal, the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the Shannon Navigation.

In response to requests from Waterways Ireland users on the Lower Bann, Waterways Ireland has included some restaurants on Lough Neagh which is not within Waterways Ireland's remit.

The dining experience is a central part of enjoying the waterways, whether for a day or a week, on a charter boat or on your own boat, fishing or walking along the waterways.

Waterways Ireland hopes you enjoy your visit to the beautiful waterways and take the opportunity to eat at some of these establishments. If on the waterways, wear your life jacket and come home safely.

A Taste of the Waterways

Corporate Publications

Waterways Ireland's Corporate Publications are listed below. You can download any of the documents from the list below.


Annual Report	Annual Report 2007
	Annual Report 2006
	Annual Report 2005 [ 1,392.28 KB]
	Annual Report 2004
	Annual Report 2003 [ 732.44 KB]
	Annual Report 2002 [ 1,134.77 KB]
	Annual Report 2001 [ 1,362.93 KB]
	Annual Report 2000 [ 1,659.08 KB]

Corporate Plan	Corporate Plan 2008-2010
	Corporate Plan 2005-2007 [ 6,498.24 KB]
	Corporate Plan 2002-2004 [ 641.74 KB]

Equality Scheme	Equality Scheme [ 353.99 KB]

Marketing Strategy	Marketing Strategy [ 2,801.88 KB]

Customer Services	Customer Service Strategy [ 432.08 KB]

Research	Report on the Economic Contribution of Private Boat Owners [ 830.29 KB]
	Waterways User Survey Report [ 317.68 KB]
	Survey of Waterways Users 2004 [ 727.58 KB]
	Survey of Waterways Users 2004 Summary [ 373.87 KB]

Corporate Publications

Waterways Ireland's Corporate Publications are listed below. You can download any of the documents from the list below.


Annual Report	Annual Report 2007
	Annual Report 2006
	Annual Report 2005 [ 1,392.28 KB]
	Annual Report 2004
	Annual Report 2003 [ 732.44 KB]
	Annual Report 2002 [ 1,134.77 KB]
	Annual Report 2001 [ 1,362.93 KB]
	Annual Report 2000 [ 1,659.08 KB]

Corporate Plan	Corporate Plan 2008-2010
	Corporate Plan 2005-2007 [ 6,498.24 KB]
	Corporate Plan 2002-2004 [ 641.74 KB]

Equality Scheme	Equality Scheme [ 353.99 KB]

Marketing Strategy	Marketing Strategy [ 2,801.88 KB]

Customer Services	Customer Service Strategy [ 432.08 KB]

Research	Report on the Economic Contribution of Private Boat Owners [ 830.29 KB]
	Waterways User Survey Report [ 317.68 KB]
	Survey of Waterways Users 2004 [ 727.58 KB]
	Survey of Waterways Users 2004 Summary [ 373.87 KB]

Equality

Waterways Ireland has been designated as a body to which all aspects of the Section 75 Northern Ireland Act 1998 apply. In addition, as a North / South Body, Waterways Ireland also complies with the Employment Equality Acts, 1998 and 2004, and the Equal Status Acts, 2000 and 2004, the relevant equality legislation in Southern Ireland.

The Waterways Ireland Equality Scheme, which was approved in September 2002, sets out the organisation's strong commitment to promoting equality of opportunity and good relations in carrying out its functions. For a copy of the Equality Scheme please on the link below.

The Waterways Ireland Equality Issues Task Group was established to support and advise on the promotion and development of equality within the organisation. Each year, an annual work programme is developed to help support and deliver equality through all of Waterways Ireland's work and to assist the organisation in meeting the commitments contained within the Equality Scheme. The programme is planned and managed by an Equality Issues Task Group. For a copy of the 2009 Equality Work Programme please click on the link below.

During 2005, the Equality Issues Task Group considered the results of the Waterways Users Equality Survey completed during 2004, which sought to establish if any of the groups which Waterways Ireland is committed to promoting equality of opportunity were represented as users on the waterways. The results collated were then compared to census data, where available. For a copy of a summary of the research report please click below.

For further details on any aspect of Waterways Ireland's Equality Scheme or the key tasks contained in the 2009 Equality Work Programme, please contact Anne Shine.

Waterways Ireland's Equality Scheme

2009 Equality Work Programme

Summary of Survey of Waterways Users 2004

Equality

For further details on any aspect of Waterways Ireland's Equality Scheme or the key tasks contained in the 2009 Equality Work Programme, please contact Anne Shine.

Waterways Ireland's Equality Scheme

2009 Equality Work Programme

Summary of Survey of Waterways Users 2004

Boat Hire on Barrow Navigation

Cruiser and Barge Hire on the Barrow Navigation

Barrowline Cruisers
Tel no +353 (0)57 862 6060
Email barrowline@eircom.net
Web www.barrowline.com

Canalways Ireland Barge Holidays
Mob no +353 (0)87 243 3879
Email canalholidays@eircom.net
Web www.canalways.ie

Jennifer's Travel
Mob no +353 (0)86 342 5546
Email jenniferstravels@gmail.com

9/43 Investment at Albert Lock

Issued 09.10.09

Waterways Ireland Continues Investment in the Shannon Navigation

Waterways Ireland is going on site in October 2009 with an investment in replacement jetties on the Shannon Navigation at Albert Lock. Albert Lock is the busiest lock on the Shannon Navigation with over 11,000 boat passages annually.

The existing fixed wooden jetties will be replaced with 120m of composite fibre reinforced floating jetties, fixed to circular steel piles. The new jetties will facilitate improved mooring at the lock and provide waiting facilities for the high number of boats passing through the lock in the summer season. The floating jetties will allow the facilities to be used throughout the year, regardless of fluctuating water levels. New jetties will be linked to the shore with a landing ramp. The path from the carpark, the landing ramp and jetties will be fully accessible.

The Albert Lock floating jetties costing €200,000(including VAT) form part of an ongoing programme of maintenance and improvement work taking place all along the navigations.

The project has been designed, commissioned and implemented by Waterways Ireland.

Ends Word count 129

Where to buy smart cards

Waterways Ireland SMART Cards

Waterways Ireland SMART cards are used to operate the locks, to access the service blocks and to use the pump-outs along the Waterway. They can be purchased from Waterway Patrollers on the Shannon-Erne Waterway or from the following local outlets and Waterways Ireland offices:

Shannon-Erne Waterway

Leitrim Village

Leitrim Post Office
Mc Cormack's Mace, Leitrim Village

Kilclare

Lynch's Shop, Kilclare
Kilclare Post Office

Keshcarrigan

Gala, Keshcarrigan

Ballinamore

Locaboat, Ballinamore
Riversdale Barge Holidays, Ballinamore
Supervalue, Ballinamore

Ballyconnell

The Gift Shop, Ballyconnell
Kennedy's Londis, Ballyconnell
Supervalue, Ballyconnell

Belturbet

Emerald Star, Belturbet
Centra, Belturbet

Waterway Patrollers

Kilclare - +353 (0)87 260 3663
Lock 16 - +353 (0)87 260 8569
Ballinamore - +353 (0)87 260 2478
Ballyconnell - +353 (0)87 260 3662
Lock 1 - +44 (0)28 6774 8976

Shannon Navigation

Lough Derg/Killaloe/Limerick

Waterways Ireland, Connaught Harbour, Portumna
Waterways Ireland, Scarriff
Portumna Bridge
Emerald Star, Portumna
Larkins Pub, Garrykennedy
Whiskey Still, Dromineer
Dick Sparling Lock Keeper, Sarsfield Lock, Limerick
The Derg Inn, Terryglass

Mid-Shannon/R.Suck

Killeen's Village Tavern, Shannonbridge
Pollboy Lock
Egan's Pub, Ballinasloe
Cost Cutters, Ballinasloe
Carrick Craft, Banagher
Silverline Cruisers, The Marina, Banagher, Co Offaly

Lough Ree/Athlone

Waterways Ireland, The Docks, Athlone
Waveline Cruisers, Athlone
Top Petrol Station, Ballyleague
Keane's Spar Shop, Lanesborough

North Shannon

Waterways Ireland, Old Dublin Rd., Carrick on Shannon
Emerald Star, Carrick on Shannon
Gartlans Shop, Carrick on Shannon
Nauty Bits, Carrick on Shannon
Carrick Craft, Carrick on Shannon
J.J. O' Connor's, Dromod
Mc Donagh's Newsagent, Boyle
Unabhan Rural Tourism Co-Op, Boyle
Drumshanbo Lock
Kelly's Spar, Bridge Street, Boyle, Co Roscommon
Mr Ciaran Fallon, Roosky Fishing Tackle Shop

Erne System

Carrick Craft, Tully Bay, Enniskillen
Fermanagh Tourist Information, Enniskillen
Waterways Ireland 2 Sligo Road, Enniskillen

Other

Waterways Ireland, Ashtowngate, Navan Rd, Dublin
Waterways Ireland, Harbour St, Tullamore

Powerboat Sports

Powerboat Sports take place on a number of the navigations managed by Waterways Ireland.

From powerboat schools to jet-skis, to waterskiing and wakeboard coaching, there are a multitude of options for getting out on the water on or behind a powerboat.

Irish Water Skiing Federation (IWSF) govern both the Water skiing and wakeboarding in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland can be contacted through

Eileen Galvin
Cork PB & WSC
Agherinagh
Dripsey, Co.Cork
Email info@iwsf.ie

Course Providers

Details of all course providers offering powerboat and inland waterways helmsman courses and certification to ISA / IWAI / Dept of Marine and Waterways Ireland approved standards can be found on the web at sailing.ie .

David Ervine-Memorial Trophy

WATERWAYS IRELAND CREATE DAVID ERVINE MEMORIAL TROPHY

Waterways Ireland commissioned a Galway Crystal Trophy to be presented to the winning entrant in the Waterways Ireland Cross Border Young Anglers competition in memory of David Ervine at the annual Scarriff Harbour Festival which took place last weekend in Co Clare.

David Ervine, in the company of Mark Durkan, attended the inaugural Scarriff Harbour Festival in 2003 as part of the cross border aspect of the festival in line with its sponsorship by the North/South Body Waterways Ireland.

At the awards ceremony last Sunday, Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland spoke of David Ervine's commitment to young people.

"Here in Scarriff, David and I discussed our mutual belief in the important role our young people North and South have to play in our future. I felt it would be a fitting tribute to his positive impact on the peace process to create a trophy for a cross border youth event here in Scarriff".

The David Ervine memorial trophy was presented to Ivan Pelaez by David's wife Jeanette Ervine, for his winning catch.

- ends -

Further info from:

Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 965 0787 or 00 353 87 991 8412.

Date: 10.08.07
PR07014

Mrs Jeanette Ervine with Ivan Pelaez the winner of the inaugural David Ervine Memorial Trophy for the Cross Border Young Anglers competition, sponsored by Waterways Ireland. Also photographed is Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland.

Location: Scarriff, Co Clare. Sunday 5th August

Martin Dennany (on right), Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland presenting the David Ervine Memorial Trophy to Mrs Jeanette Ervine. Also present is Timmy Dooley, TD.

08 WI vindicated

Waterways Ireland vindicated

Waterways Ireland has been vindicated in its actions in the appointment of the Director of Marketing and Communications.

A case had been brought against Waterways Ireland in the Fair Employment Tribunal in Northern Ireland, alleging that Waterways Ireland had breached equality legislation in this appointment.

Waterways Ireland had explained to the Tribunal that the British Irish Agreement Act 1999 required Waterways Ireland to accept into its staff anyone transferred under the provisions of this Act. Under these circumstances Waterways Ireland was required to fill posts by transfer rather than by holding open competition. The appointment of the Director of Marketing and Communications was made in line with these requirements.

The parties then reached an agreement and the case against Waterways Ireland was then withdrawn and the Industrial Tribunal dismissed the action.

The Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland is pleased that allegations that his actions were improper have now been withdrawn.

3 September 2008

Waterways Ireland Press Office
+353 71 9650787
+353 87 6885963

2005 Press Releases

ARCHIVE:

Update on Proposed New Office in Carrick-on-Shannon	03.11.05	Press Release
Temporary Closure WI Visitor Centre	22.09.05	Press Release
Proposed New Office in Carrick-on-Shannon Public Meeting	03.09.05	Press Release
Proposed New Office in Carrick-on-Shannon	02.09.05	Press Release
Launch of A Taste of the Waterways in Belfast	15.08.05	Press Release
Launch of A Taste of the Waterways in Dublin	10.08.05	Press Release
Upgraded Jetty at Riverview, Enniskillen	08.07.05	Press Release
Munro Challenge	08.07.05	Press Release
Official Opening of Cleighran More Harbour	30.05.05	Press Release
Launch of What's on Guide 2005	25.05.05	Press Release
Classic Fishing Festival 2005 Results	14.05.05	Press Release
Classic Fishing Festival 2005 Day 2	12.05.05	Press Release
Classic Fishing Festival 2005 Day 1	10.05.05	Press Release
New Moorings & Harbour at Portrunny, Co Roscommon	09.05.05	Press Release
Launch of Classic Fishing Festival 2005	25.04.05	Press Release
Update on Headquarters Building in Enniskillen	06.04.05	Press Release
Launch of Good Boating Guide	28.02.05	Press Release
Launch of Angling Guides	19.02.05	Press Release
Launch of Edenderry Angling Guide	16.02.05	Press Release
London Boat Show 2005	27.01.05	Press Release

Customer Advice

Information available to customers including guidance notes, leaflets, booklets and brochures.

Please download the Publications Listing below.

Publications Listing

2006 Water Ski World Cup

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES FOR FRANCE, GREECE, CANADA AND USA AT WATER SKI WORLD CUP SERIES IN NORTHERN IRELAND

The town of Enniskillen in Northern Ireland really took this Stop of the Water Ski World Cup series to heart. The venue in front of a 12th Century Castle alongside Lough Erne created a spectacular backdrop for a large and enthusiastic audience and outstanding performances from the athletes: the outcome was certainly impressive.

Following previous 2006 World Cup Stops in Qatar, France, China and Russia, Waterways Ireland welcomed the final event of the tour for the second consecutive year to Enniskillen and Lough Erne.

The Ladies Slalom Final came first starting with Clementine Lucine (FRA). She was the only athlete to qualify for all three Finals. Her score of four buoys on the 12 metre line set the pace. Sarah Green (GBR) tied this score but it was Natalie Hamrick's day as she was the only one to score anything on the 11.25m line. Having had two major wins in the USA and Europe in recent weeks, her return to form was very well-timed. Last year's Enniskillen winner, Jodi Fisher (GBR) had an outstanding score of 5.5 buoys on the very short 11.25m line. However, the tall 6'4" Canadian, Drew Ross, stole the show with a great score of two buoys on the even shorter 10.75m line. This was his first World Cup victory.

Shortboard came next. While Danyelle Bennett (USA) and Clementine Lucine (FRA) clocked up very respectable scores, the World Champion Mandy Nightingale (USA) returned to the top. Her score in Enniskillen of 8530 points was 580 points ahead of her nearest rival Lucine. The Men's Shortboard Final was a dramatic affair. Aliaksei Zharnasek (BLR) was the year-to-date points leader. World Record holder Nicolas LeForestier (FRA) had a very poor World Cup performance in Qatar last April and was still playing "catch up ". Oleg Deviatovski (BLR) scored a new personal best of 11,140 points and LeForestier was then forced to take some serious risks. However, on this day it all paid off as he snatched the title from Deviatovski with a winning score of 11,670 points.

When the Jump Finals arrived, the Enniskillen arena in the shadow of its 12th Century Castle overlooking the site was packed to capacity. Even the weather was kind. The Ladies battle was a predictable duel between World Champion Ageliki Andriopoulou (GRE) and Denmark's June Fladborg. Fladborg put enormous pressure on the Greek athlete by posting an early score of 47.2m. distance. Andriopoulou then scored zero on her first attempt, to increase the suspense. However, her following distance of 48.9m took the title and also set a new Enniskillen Course Record. In the Men's Jump event, Jaret Lewellyn (CAN) returned to defend his 2005 Enniskillen title. As predicted, Freddy Krueger (USA) was his greatest threat. Krueger set the pace with a score of 68.2m plus a new Irish Allcomers Record. However, with eleven World Records to his credit, Lewellyn on this occasion could only get to 66.8m to take second place. Sebastien DiPasqua (CHE) scored an impressive distance of 64.4m and a World Cup third place.

The World Cup Series ended in Enniskillen with the World Champions announced. Based on results over the whole tour Jodie Fisher and Mandy Nightingale are Slalom World Champions; Nicholas LeForestier and Ageliki Andriopoulou are Shortboard World Champion; and Freddie Krueger and June Fladborg are Jump World Champions

SLALOM WINNERS - Women
1. Natalie Hamrick (USA) 0.5 x 11.25m
2. Sarah Green (GBR) 4 x 12m
3. Clementine Lucine (FRA) 4 x 12m

SLALOM WINNERS - Men
1. Drew Ross (CAN) - 2 x 10.75m
2. Jodi Fisher (GBR) - 5.5 x 11.25m
3. Jamie Beauchesne (USA) - 4 x 11.25m

SHORTBOARD WINNERS - Women
1. Mandy Nightingale (USA) - 8,530
2. Clementine Lucine (FRA) - 7,950
3. Danyelle Bennett (USA) - 5,860

SHORTBOARD WINNERS - Men
1. Nicolas LeForestier (FRA) - 11,670
2. Oleg Deviatovski (BLR) - 11,140
3. Aliaksei Zharnosek (BLR) - 11,060

JUMP WINNERS - Women
1. Ageliki Andriopoulou (GRE) - 48.9m
2. June Fladborg (DEN) - 47.2m
3. Clementine Lucine (FRA) - 45.7m

JUMP WINNERS - Men
1. Freddy Krueger (USA) - 68.2m
2. Jaret Llewellyn (CAN) - 66.8m
3. Sebastien DiPasqua (CHE) - 64.4m

- Ends -

Summer Fun in Fermanagh

FIND SUMMER FUN IN FERMANAGH

Waterways Ireland and Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism have announced details of the "I Found Summer Fun - Fermanagh - Lough Erne Summer 2006" event which is to run in Fermanagh during August and September.

The event will feature community festivals, country shows, World Waterskiing Championships, a Heritage Boat Rally, a weekend of water sports, canoe polo, family fun days and much more.

Excited about the events, Martin Dennany, Waterways Ireland, said:

"With over 40 events on and off the water, catering for all age groups and tastes, Lough Erne will be the place to be in August and September. Waterways Ireland is delighted to be providing major sponsorship for many of the water based activities and hopes that visitors to the region will enjoy what's on offer."

Tanya Cathcart from Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism commented:

"Fermanagh will be the place to be this August and September. As well as a full programme of activities there are many other exciting attractions that the visiting public will be able to enjoy."

Delighted about the event Ruth Burns, Short Breaks and Destination PR Manager for the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, added:

"This is a fantastic opportunity, not only to check out some of the great activities, but to make the most of the festivities and take a short break in the region. With a selection of hotels, guesthouses, B&B's - 'I Found Summer Fun - Fermanagh - Lough Erne Summer 2006' provides the perfect way to explore and enjoy Fermanagh."

For further information on "I found Summer fun - Fermanagh - Lough Erne Summer 2006" visit www.findfermanagh.com,
www.waterwaysireland.com or www.discovernorthernrieland.com

-Ends-

Further media enquiries:

Aoife Morrissy
Waterways Ireland
Press Officer
Tel: 00353 71 9650622
e-mail: aoife.morrissy@waterwaysireland.org

Rachael Harriott
Northern Ireland Tourist Board
Destination PR
Tel: 028 9044 1576
e-mail: r.harriott@nitb.com

Helping to promote the event in Fermanagh were, from left, Rachael Harriott, Destination PR Officer from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Martin Dennany from Waterways Ireland and Clodagh Carty from Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism.

Standards of Service

Information provided to customers on the levels of service they can expect to receive:


Title	Section	Class

Waterways Ireland Customer Charter	Marketing and Communications	Customer Advice

Click on any of the publications above to download.

Proposed Office

WATERWAYS IRELAND NEW REGIONAL OFFICE IN CARRICK ON SHANNON

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Waterways Ireland is one of six North/South Implementation Bodies established following the British-Irish Agreement in 1999. Waterways Ireland, the largest of the North/South Implementation Bodies, is responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway systems.

Following a meeting of the North South Ministerial Council in June 2000, it was agreed that the Northern Regional Office for Waterways Ireland would be located in Carrick-on-Shannon in recognition of the strategic importance of the waterside town and the contribution of the waterway to the local economy. The Waterways Ireland Northern Region encompasses the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the Erne System and the Lower Bann Navigation (which runs from Lough Neagh, north to the sea at Coleraine). In addition, the Northern Regional office will be the base for North Shannon Operations and Marketing and Communications staff.

Waterways Ireland intends to construct a quality landmark building at a waterfront location which will facilitate access to the Regional Office for customers by water and by road.

The proposed site for the new Regional Office at Cortober is owned by Waterways Ireland. The proposed building will be set behind the mature trees which stand on the site, and will cover approximately one quarter of the site. The area of the building is 1000m2 with 19 underground parking spaces, a ground floor, first floor and terraced roof. The construction of the building will also include approximately 100m of public jetties which will accommodate up to 10 craft. These facilities will be the first public moorings on the east side of the river and will provide access to Cortober from the water.

A public consultation meeting is planned for Tuesday 6th September at 7.30pm in the Landmark Hotel, Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim. The public meeting is taking place to consider views of interested parties as part of the consultation process for the proposed new regional office for Waterways Ireland in Cortober, Carrick on Shannon. All interested parties are invited to attend. In advance of the meeting, a model of the proposed new Regional Office will be available to view in the Waterways Ireland office, Somerview House, Old Dublin Road, Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim. Viewing times are from 10am - 1pm and 2.30pm - 5pm, Monday to Friday. For further details on the public meeting, please call Waterways Ireland at 071 9650787.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 02.09.2005
PR050022

Proposed Office

WATERWAYS IRELAND NEW REGIONAL OFFICE IN CARRICK ON SHANNON

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Waterways Ireland intends to construct a quality landmark building at a waterfront location which will facilitate access to the Regional Office for customers by water and by road.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 02.09.2005
PR050022

Craft Registration System

New Craft Registration System for Waterways Ireland

At the launch of the new Craft Registration Management System, from left; Ian Cameron, Waterways Ireland; Derek Kehoe, iB Solutions; Charles Lawn, Waterways Ireland; Brian Cleland, Waterways Ireland; Brian D'Arcy, Waterways Ireland; and Damien Marron, iB Solutions. Photograph taken in front of the new Waterways Ireland Headquarters building in Enniskillen, due to be completed next month.

Waterways Ireland is the North/South Implementation Body responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway systems throughout the island, 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.

The Waterways Ireland Inspectorate is responsible for ensuring that the Bye-Laws on the waterways are adhered to and this includes the registration of craft.

In the past the registration was a manual procedure which was paper based and carried out by staff in the office. This summer a new registration system called CRMS (Craft Registration Management System) was launched which will allow the staff of the Waterways Ireland Inspectorate to register new entries while on patrol (on land and water) and will also facilitate improved management of the existing register.

The project, which was awarded to iB Solutions, commenced in February last year and is part of an overall upgrading of the registration system which will also facilitate online registration by owners over the Internet. This service is due to be available in September 2008.

- ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

PR08009
Date: 18.08.2008

'07 TriAthlone

ENNISKILLEN'S OLYMPIC HOPEFUL GAVIN NOBLE WINS THE WATERWAYS IRELAND TRIATHLONE 2007

For the second year, Athlone, Co Westmeath has played host to the largest triathlon in Ireland. The "Waterways Ireland triAthlone" saw over 1,500 athletes including RT� presenter Kathryn Thomas, and BBC's Grandstand host Craig Doyle take to the 750m swim in the River Shannon, cycling the 20km bike route and running 5km through the streets of the town.

The event was also the host of the Irish Elite Championships for 2007, and saw Ireland's top 40 elite male athletes battle the River Shannon to start the country's premier race. Gavin Noble from Fermanagh was the overall winner - smashing the course record - coming home in a time of 54 mins. 39 secs., 26 seconds ahead of Brian Campbell in 2nd with 3rd placed James Lock a further 1 min. 21 secs. back.

Such has been the success of the event that, after just 2 years, Athlone was recently announced as the host of the European Triathlon Championships 2010, a first for Ireland. The midlands town promises to provide a magnificent arena for this unique sporting event in three years time when in excess of 2,500 participants will take part in what will be one of Europe's biggest ever triathlon showcases.

At the prize-giving ceremony on Saturday evening (14th July), John Martin, Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland spoke of the significance of the event.

He said, "Waterways Ireland is very proud to be associated with the triAthlone for a second year which has seen the event grow rapidly to a future host of the European Triathlon Championships; a truly remarkable achievement and one which may be credited to the energy and commitment of the organising committee, the hundreds of volunteers and of course the competitors. This evening is a time for celebration for everyone associated with the event and the people of Athlone".

Further information on the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2007 is available from
info@triathlone.com or from the event website, www.triathlone.com.

- ends -

Further info from:

Karen Cunningham, Waterways Ireland triAthlone, 00 353 87 217 4112, karen@triathlone.com, or
Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 965 0787 or 00 353 87 991 8412.

Date: 19.07.07
PR07012

John Martin, Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland, presenting first prize for the Waterways Ireland triAthlone to Gavin Nobel.

Competitors preparing to dive start the Elite Race swim of 750m on the River Shannon as part of the Waterways Ireland triAthlone.

Find Fermanagh

For an introduction to the area Please click here

9/42 Successful Discover Tulla

Released 06.10.09

Record Turnout for Discover Tullamore Day

Great weather brought an estimated 5,000 people into Tullamore this Sunday to participate in the wide range of free activities throughout the town.

Tullamore Dew Heritage centre was the hub for a lot of activity and over 70 people took advantage of the free tour offered. The road race run by the harriers attracted over 60 entries, the group were delighted with the route and the organization and want this to become an annual event. Countless numbers of children were given an opportunity by Annaharvey Farm to ride a pony, and though many had to queue the excitement was palpable.
The walking tour lead by Michael Byrne was reminiscent of the Pied Pieper as he led over 120 people through the town to discover the history. A deep love of Charleville Castle was evident as over 400 people attended the tours offered on the day. Texas came alive with a putting competition, salsa dancing, dance mats, Lough Boora exhibition and overflow from the art competition. The Offaly Historical and Archaeological Society opened their doors wide on Sunday and took time to speak to the hundreds of local people who came to discover its' secrets on Sunday.

The Tullamore Rowing and canoeing clubs took to the Canal on Sunday for hours creating a fantastic spectacle. The members of the clubs enthusiasticly shared their passion for the water with hundreds of children and adults, many of whom tried both sports for the first time! Saoirse ar an Uisce provided a more leisurely trip on the water and also proved very popular.

Commenting on the event, chairperson on the organizing committee Tony Mc Cormack said, "We were delighted with the day and with the huge numbers of people who took part in the activities arranged. A number of activities were over subscribed and we would like to thank both the participants for their patience and the volunteers for their hard work on the day. Along with local businesses who participated, the organizing committee, the Town Council and County Council, Failte Ireland and Waterways Ireland we would especially like to thank the transition year students who study under Pauline Mc Kenna for their invaluable assistance on the day. There are always elements that could be run differently, but on the whole we are delighted with the day."

Kevin Kidney - General Manager Failte Ireland East and Midlands region attended on the day and commented, "I was delighted to attend on Sunday and was lucky enough to have a seat on the Monastic Sites Tour which I enjoyed. The day reaffirmed my belief in the number of different activities a tourist to the area could participate in. We were delighted to work with our partners Waterways Ireland on yet another innovative project to raise the profile of the canal. A huge effort was put in by the local committee and we are privileged to have worked along side them."

ENDS

Katrina Mc Girr -Waterways Ireland
Ph: 087 9918412

Shannon Planned Works

2009 Capital Projects

Battlebridge Lock Grouting (Project Complete)

Infrastructural improvements to seal significant leakage from the lock chamber and land sluice tunnel.

Coffer Dam Athlone. (Project Complete)

Construction of Cofferdam in Athlone to facilitate maintenance works.

Provision of amenities at Lecarrow (Project ongoing)

This project is being undertaken in partnership with Roscommon County Council. The project entails the provision of a service block and pumpout station, dredging of silt in the harbour area, and provision of slipway, access road and car parking.

Western Region Signage (Project ongoing)

Provision and installation of informational, navigational and safety signage at various locations.

Provision of amenities at Clondra/Richmond Harbour (Project ongoing)

Provision of additional moorings, car parking, play area, visitor facilities and lockhouse refurbishment. The project is being jointly promoted and funded with Failte Ireland and Longford County Council.

Activities

A land of tranquil beauty shaped by legend and tradition, Irelands' waterways can provide a unique experience for everyone. The natural environment provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural and outdoor activities. High adventure or total relaxation, the options are endless.

You can stay on a cruiser, take a boat out for a day or join a trip. If hiring a cruiser you can spend leisurely days island-hopping on the Shannon or the Erne while relaxing on board. By boat you'll find magnificent scenery not always visible from road. The wide open spaces and the splendid solitude invites total exploration.

The sign posted walkways will help work up an appetite allowing you to stop en route at the many pubs and restaurants along the way. Or you can take to your bicycle along the towpaths and quiet country roads. For total relaxation, why not try casting a line into calm canal waters or the faster waters of the rivers and lakes.

For sheer exhilaration have a go at some of the watersports on offer. Follow the new Canoe Trail on the Erne or try kayaking on the Barrow with any of the providers along the waterways. If you want to learn to sail the Shannon and the Erne provide excellent opportunities while waterskiing and wakeboarding on the Erne, Lower Bann and the Shannon will help awaken your sense of adventure.

Whatever holiday you choose, the waterways, beautiful and varied, wait to be discovered.

Canal Closures

Royal Canal

Spencer Dock, Dublin City: remains closed to facilitate the installation of navigation and flood gates at the Liffey.

Freedom of Information

What is a FOI Publication Scheme?

The North South Implementation Bodies and Tourism Ireland Ltd operate under the Freedom of Information Code of Practice (the Code), which came into effect on 1st February, 2006. The primary objective of the Code is to facilitate access by members of the public to information held by the North/South Implementation Bodies. Under Section 6 of the Code, Publications, Waterways Ireland has a duty to adopt and maintain a Publication Scheme for the publication of Waterways Ireland's information.

Waterways Ireland's Publication Scheme provides guidance to the public on what information is routinely available within the organisation and how to obtain it. Some of the information may be formally published either as printed documents or via the Waterways Ireland website; other information may be accessible upon request. This scheme will indicate how to obtain the information in each case and whether there is a charge for such information. It is expected that over time the amount of information available will increase and that additional classes of information will be added.

This Publication Scheme will be available both in hard copy and on the Waterways Ireland website and can be made available in alternative formats as appropriate.

Rights of Access to Information

The Freedom of Information Code of Practice places an obligation on Waterways Ireland to respond to requests for information it receives within given timescales. Unless otherwise specified, the version of any document released will be the most recently approved by Waterways Ireland. The rights to request and access information are subject to certain exemptions set out in the Code, which Waterways Ireland will take into consideration before deciding what information can be released.
In addition requests for information can be made under Data Protection leglisation and under Enviromental Information Regulations a short summary of both of these routes for information requests is set out at Appendix 3

Comments or feedback

Waterways Ireland plans to review this Scheme every twelve months and would value your feedback. If you wish to comment on this scheme we would be pleased to hear from you. Please address your comments in writing to:

Freedom of Information Officer
Waterways Ireland
2 Sligo Road
ENNISKILLEN
Co Fermanagh
BT74 7JY
Tel no +44 (0)28 6632 3004

or by e-mail at informationrequest@waterwaysireland.org

Click here for further information on how to access information

Click on the Link below to download a Freedom of Information Request Form:

Freedom of Information Request Form

The Barrow Navigation

MARINE NOTICE 112/09

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters and users of the Barrow Navigation that the Grand Canal Barrow Line will be closed to navigation from Monday 2nd November 2009 until 17th March 2010.

This is to accommodate the winter dredging programme from Lock 21 Ballyteague, to Lock 22 Glenaree.

Any inconvenience that this may cause our customers is regretted.

Please direct any further queries to our Eastern Regional Office on
Tel no +353 (0)1 882 3319

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
27 October 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 6494232
Fax: +353 (0)90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 12/09

LOCK WAITING JETTIES

C. J. Lawn
Lt Cdr Rtd
Inspector of Navigation
20 Feb 2009

Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 52/08

Manual Operations of Canal Locks

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all masters and users of the waterways that manual lock operations should be undertaken bearing the following in mind.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
Tel: +353 (0)90 649 4232
Fax: +353 (0)90 649 4147

HEAVY MACHINERY

Shane Anderson
Lt Cdr RNS
Assistant Inspector of Navigation

Tel: 00 353 (0) 90 6494232
Fax: 00 353 (0) 87 2865726

10/01 Water Hazards in Current

issued 08.01.10

Waterside Danger in Icy Weather Conditions

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise of the need to take extreme care in locations along canals, lakes and rivers in the current weather conditions.

In particular snow and ice may conceal the water edge of canals or rivers, and provide slippery conditions underfoot in harbours, jetties and other waterside areas.

Waterways users should be aware that ice on canals or rivers is insufficient to bear the weight of a person or animal. No-one should permit their children or animals to make their way onto the ice.
In case of a person or animal entering the water, first response should be to contact 999.

The advice to all Waterways Ireland users is not to access frozen canal or rivers, take extreme care adjacent to waterways, and inform family or friends before undertaking any water based activity.

Notice of Towpath Closures

UPDATE ON TOWPATH CLOSURE

INCHICORE TO LUCAN, GRAND CANAL

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise that improvement works to the southern towpath of the Grand Canal from the 3rd Lock at Inchicore to the 12th Lock at Lucan are nearing completion. It is envisaged that sections of the towpath will be re-opened from March 2010 onwards as works are completed, with the entire towpath expected to be re-opened by July 2010.

Waterways Ireland would like to highlight that at this stage the canal towpath in this area is still deemed a construction site. Canal users should refrain from attempting to gain access to the closed sections of canal for their own safety. Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience caused during these improvement works.

TOWPATH CLOSURE NOTICE

During this period the southern towpath will not be accessible to the public. Diversion signs for alternative pedestrian routes will be provided. The towpath will remain closed until January 2010.

Waterways Ireland regrets any inconvenience caused by these closures.

General Marine Notices

SPECIAL MARINE NOTICE 2010

Registration of Vessels

All vessels using the Shannon Navigation and the Erne System must be registered. Only open undecked boats with an engine of 15 horsepower or less, on the Shannon Navigation, and vessels of 10 horsepower or less, on the Erne System, are exempt.

Canal Permits

All vessels using the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation must have a current valid Permit displayed before being navigated or moored.

Events Held on the Waterways

All organised events taking place on the waterways must have the prior approval of Waterways Ireland. Application forms for this approval and the associated indemnity form may be had from the Inspectorate offices.

Berthing in Public Harbours

On the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway craft may berth in public harbours for five consecutive days or a total of seven days in any one month during the period 1 April to 31 October.

On the Erne System no vessel may berth at a public mooring for more than 48 hours without a four hour intermission.

Pump Out Berths

Masters of vessels should note that it is not permitted to berth at pump out stations.

Passenger Vessel Berths

Masters of vessels should not berth on passenger vessel berths where it is indicted that an arrival is imminent. Passenger vessels plying the navigations generally only occupy the berths to embark and disembark passengers and rarely remain on the berths for extended periods or overnight.

Lock Lead-in Jetties

Lead-in jetties adjacent to the upstream and downstream gates at lock chambers are solely for the purpose of craft waiting to use the lock and should not be used for long term berthing.

Vessel Wash

Vessel wash, that is, the wave generated by the passage of the boat through the water, can sometimes be large, powerful and destructive depending on the hull shape and engine power of the vessel. This wash can be detrimental to other users of the navigation when it strikes their craft or inundates the shoreline or riverbank. Masters are requested to frequently look behind and check the effect of their wash particularly when passing moored vessels, on entering harbours and approaching jetties and to be aware of people fishing or recreating on the riverbank.

Speed Restriction

A vessel or boat shall not be navigated on the Shannon Navigation at a speed in excess of 5 kph when within 200 metres of a bridge, quay, jetty or wharf, when in a harbour or canal or when passing within 100 metres of a moored vessel or boat.

Vessels navigating the Shannon-Erne Waterway should observe the general 5 kph speed limit which applies along the waterway. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to the banks caused by excessive wash from vessels.

Vessels navigating the Erne System should observe the statutory 5 kt / 6mph/10kph speed limit areas.

Bank Erosion

Narrow sections of all the navigations are particularly prone to bank erosion due to the large wash generated by some craft. Masters are requested to be vigilant and to slow down to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage when they observe the wash of their craft inundating the river banks.

Unusual Waterborne Activity

Unusual waterborne vessels may be encountered from time to time, such as, hovercraft or amphibious aircraft / seaplanes. Masters of such craft are reminded to apply the normal "Rule of the Road" when they meet conventional craft on the water and to allow extra room to manoeuvre in the interest of safety.

Sailing Activity

Mariners will encounter large numbers of sailing dinghies from late June to August in the vicinity of Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Lower Lough Erne. Vessels should proceed at slow speed and with due caution and observe the rules of navigation when passing these fleets, as many of the participants are junior sailors under training.

Rowing and Canoeing

Mariners should expect to meet canoes and vessels under oars on any part of the navigations, either recreating, in training or in competition but more so in the vicinity of Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon, Coleraine, Enniskillen and Limerick. Masters are reminded to proceed at slow speed and especially to reduce their wash to a minimum when passing these craft as they can be easily upset and swamped due to their very low freeboard. Persons in charge of canoes are reminded of the inherent danger to these craft associated with operating close to weirs and sluice gates and other navigation infrastructure when high flow rates pertain and large volumes of water are moving through the navigations due to general flood conditions or very heavy localised precipitation.

Fast Powerboats and Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis)

Masters of Fast Powerboats (speed greater than 17kts) and Personal Watercraft (e.g.Jet Skis) are reminded of the inherent dangers associated with high speed on the water and especially in the confines of small bays and narrow sections of the navigations. Keeping a proper look-out, making early alterations to course and /or reducing speed will avoid conflict with slower vessels using the navigation.

Age Restrictions

In the Republic of Ireland you have to be at least 16 years of age to operate a PWC e.g Jetski and 12 years of age or over to operate a vessel with more than a 5 hp engine.

Prohibition on Swimming

Swimming in the navigable channel, particularly at bridges, is dangerous and is prohibited due to the risk of being run over by a vessel underway in the navigation.

Towing Waterskiers, Wakeboarders, Doughnuts etc

Masters of vessels engaged in any of these activities are reminded of the manoeuvring constraints imposed upon their vessel by the tow and of the added responsibilities that they have to the person(s) being towed. These activities should be conducted in areas which are clear of conflicting traffic. In addition, a look-out should be carried to keep the tow under observation at all times.

Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFD's)

In the Republic of Ireland all persons on board any craft of less than 7m (23 ft) must wear a lifejacket or PFD while on board an open craft or on the deck of a decked craft that is not made fast to the shore. This requirement also applies to Personal Watercraft Craft and any vessel or object being towed e.g. waterskier, wakeboarder, doughnut, banana etc.

Danger Area

The attention of mariners is drawn to the Army Firing Range situated in the vicinity of buoys No's 2 and 3, on Lough Ree in the Shannon Navigation.

Shannon Navigation, Portumna Swing Bridge Tolls

No attempt should be made by Masters' of vessels to pay the bridge toll while making way through the bridge opening. Payment will only be taken by the Collector from Masters when they are secured alongside the jetties North and South of the bridge.

Shannon Navigation, Abbey River and Sarsfield Lock, Limerick

The attention of all users of this stretch of the Shannon Navigation is drawn to the published notices regarding navigation. Users are advised to contact the Ardnacrusha Power station before commencing their transit of this part of the river to ascertain how many turbines are currently running. It is advised NOT to undertake a voyage if more than one turbine is operating, due to the increased velocity of flow in the navigation, which can be dangerous. This situation may also arise when flood conditions prevail. Further, passage of Sarsfield Lock should be booked on +353 (0)87797 2998, on the day prior to travel and it should be noted also that transit is not possible two hours either side of low water.

Lower Bann Navigation

The attention of all users is drawn to the "Users Code for the Lower Bann", in particular to that section covering "Flow in the River" outlining the dangers for users both on the banks and in the navigation associated with high flow rates when the river is in spate. Canoeists should consult and carry a copy of the "Lower Bann Canoe Trail" guide issued by the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland.

Overhead Power Lines

The attention of all is drawn to the dangers associated with overhead power lines especially sailing vessels and dinghys. Vigilance is required especially in the vicinity of slipways and dinghy parks. Fishermen are also reminded that a minimum ground distance of 30 metres should be maintained from overhead power lines when using rod and line.

Submarine Cables and Pipes

Masters of vessels are reminded not to anchor their vessels in the vicinity of submarine cables or pipes in case they foul their anchor or damage the cables or pipes

Caution to be Used in Reliance upon Aids to Navigation

The aids to navigation depicted on charts comprise a system of fixed and floating aids to navigation with varying degrees of reliability. Therefore, prudent mariners will not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid to navigation. With respect to buoys, the buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and the ground tackle which secures it to the lake or river bed. The approximate position is used because of the practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, inherent imprecision in fixing methods, prevailing atmospheric and lake/river conditions, the slope of and the material making up the lake/river bed, the fact that the buoys are moored to varying lengths of chain, and the fact that the buoy body and/or ground tackle positions are not under continuous surveillance. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charted symbol. Buoys and perches are also moved out of position by those mariners who use them to moor up to instead of anchoring. Further, a vessel attempting to pass close by always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction that the buoy or beacon / perch marks.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation

Tel: Athlone +353 (0)90 649 4232 or Enniskillen +44 (0)28 6632 2836
Fax: + 353 (0)90 649 4147

MARINE NOTICE 74/09

PROCEDURES FOR PASSING OF MOORING ROPES TO LOCK-KEEPERS

On entering a lock chamber, the lock keeper will offer a boat hook to the crewmembers for the transfer of the mooring lines.

The lines must not be thrown to or at the lock keeper in the interest of safety and an efficient mooring operation.

Charles Lawn
Lt Cdr (rtd)
Inspector of Navigation
15 July 2009

Tel: +353 (0)90 64 94232
Fax: +353 (0)90 64 94147

MARINE NOTICE 12/09

LOCK WAITING JETTIES

C. J. Lawn
Lt Cdr Rtd
Inspector of Navigation
20 Feb 2009

Tel: 00 353 90 6494232
Fax: 00 353 90 6494147

MARINE NOTICE 01/09

Marine Notices Remaining Current

Waterways Ireland wishes to advise all Masters and Users of the navigations that the following Marine Notices remain current.

No.	Navigation	Subject	Valid Until
10/07	Shannon	Trial Buoys	Further Notice
51/08	Shannon	Abbey R. Isolated Danger
52/08	Canals	Operation of Locks
54/08	Shannon	Strong Water Flows
56/08	Shannon-Erne	High Water Levels
57/08	Shannon	High Water Levels
59/08	Lower Bann	High Water Levels
60/08	Erne System	High Water Levels
65/08	Shannon	Sunken Vessel - L.Ree
68/08	Shannon	Ardnacrusha Closure	31 Mar 2009
77/08	Shannon	Athlone Rail Bridge	28 Feb 2009
80/08	Erne System	Closure Round "O"	31 Mar 2009
83/08	Canals	Planned Maintenance	Mar 2009
87/08	Shannon-Erne	Tree Trimming	28 Feb 2009
88/08	Lower Bann	Aids to Navigation	Until Further Notice
89/08	Shannon	Clonmacnoise Jetty	Mar 2009
93/08	Barrow	Bestfield Lock	17 Mar 2009
94/08	Shannon	Battlebridge Lock	1 Mar 2009
95/08	Shannon	Sarsfield Lock - Pontoon	Jan 09
96/08	Shannon	Lecarrow Harbour	Mar 09
101/08	Shannon	Victoria / Athlone Locks	Jan /Mar 2009

C.J.Lawn
Lt Cdr RNS
Inspector of Navigation
9 Jan 2009
Tel: 353 90 6494232
Fax: 353 90 6494147

Events

09/41 Tullamore ..Discover

Tullamore .... Discover what is on your doorstep
Open Day to take place Sunday 4 October

Tullamore has been chosen to host an open day showcasing everything that is on offer for visitors in the area. Discover Tullamore takes place on Sunday 4 October from 12 noon as locals and visitors alike are encouraged to come along and enjoy an afternoon of free activities with fun for all the family. Organised by Failte Ireland, Waterways Ireland, Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council in conjunction with a local committee the open day will provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the tourism assets of the Tullamore area.

The Discover Tullamore initiative is part of a broader campaign to develop and promote Ireland's Lakelands and Inland Waterways which aims to significantly boost visitor numbers to the Lakeland regions over the next three years.

Speaking about the event Kevin Kidney of Failte Ireland, said -

"We hope the event will give local people a greater awareness of what there is to see and do in their community and therefore, allow them to act as ambassadors for their region with both domestic and overseas visitors. They may even consider inviting friends to join them for the weekend to sample the delights of Tullamore and its environs.

Ireland's Lakelands and Inland Waterways can provide unique experiences for everyone. The natural environment provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural and outdoor activities."

A range of product offerings will be on display including visitor attractions, live music and activities. Locals will be able to enjoy a fun run, live music, angling demonstrations, food and craft fairs, pitch & putt, treasure hunt, walking tours, and come and try canoeing and rowing sessions. Events are being co-ordinated locally via a steering group formed from representatives of local businesses and chaired by Tony Mc Cormack, President of Tullamore Chamber of Commerce.

According to �anna Rowe, Head of Marketing and Communications at Waterways Ireland-

"Discover Tullamore will highlight to locals and tourists the incredible diversity and quality of attractions, activities and entertainments in this area. It will enhance the capacity of everyone to promote Tullamore nationally and internationally and is expected to have an impact on tourist numbers and the local economy."

A Discover Tullamore Colouring Competition is running in the lead up to the event inviting all local schoolchildren to discover their very own Tullamore. The closing date for entries is 25 September 2009 and all entries will be on display in the Bridge Centre in Tullamore on 4 October from 2-6pm.

Tony Mc Cormack, President of Tullamore Chamber of Commerce welcomed the event -

"I am absolutely delighted with the range and scope of events that has been organised. I believe they will showcase all that Tullamore has to offer in a very positive light. I would like to sincerely thank all the businesses and individuals who have responded so enthusiastically to our call to get involved.

I would also like to thank the hardworking committee who have put so much energy and effort in putting this unique programme together. We would urge everyone to come along to Tullamore on Sunday, 4 October and enjoy the free entertainment."

Also commenting on the Initiative, Ruth Mc Nally from Tullamore Town Council said -

"Discover Tullamore Day is an ideal opportunity to showcase the facilities and attractions Tullamore has to offer to both the local community and the visitors to the area, Offaly County Council and Tullamore Town Council are delighted to support this event."

2007 TriAthlone Press Pack

Waterways Ireland triAthlone Press Pack

The Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2007 takes place on Saturday 14th July in Athlone, Co Westmeath. The event which is in its second year will see over 1500 competitors take to the Shannon and to the streets of Athlone for one of the largest triathlons in Europe this year.

The event consists of a 750m Swim in the River Shannon followed by a 20km Cycle and 5km Run around and through the streets of Athlone. The race starts at 3.55pm and continues in waves at regular intervals until 5.30pm. Later in the evening, the Irish Elite Championships Race starts at 8.00pm with a spectacular "dive start" from a temporary pontoon downstream of the main bridge in Athlone.

For further details on the event and a full timetable which includes details on the road closures in Athlone, please click here

For additional information, please contact Liam Heavin, Chief Executive, triAthlone on +353 (0)87 205 0055.

2008 WI TriAthlone Results

Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2008

Ireland's first Olympic triathlete Emma Davis finished second at the Waterways Ireland TriAthlone in a time of 2:01:51 on Saturday.

The race was won by fellow Olympian Lenka Zemanova from the Czech Republic in a time of 2:01:19, with Felicity Sheedy Ryan from Australia coming home in third in 2:02:34.

Davis began well in the swim and led the race coming into transition. It was during the bike race when Zemanova made up the time on Davis and she eventually overtook her on the cycle.
Davis stuck with Zemanova but when the run began the Czech started to extend her lead and eventually came home in first in front of a huge crowd of 6,000 in Athlone.
'I was delighted to finish second today. There was a great crowd and having everyone cheering me on was fantastic,' said Davis who was racing in her first major triathlon in Ireland and her last before the Olympics.
'Zemanova is a brilliant athlete and has great experience so to be close to her is good for me and my preparation ahead of Beijing.'

The only other Irish competitor in the women's race was Aileen Morrison from Derry, who finished in 6th place.

The men's Elite race was won by the World and European Junior Champion Vincent Luis from France, in a time of 1:48:49.
Luis snatched victory in a thrilling sprint finish.
The Frenchman was in the lead group from the start but the field opened out following the cycle.
Luis broke clear with fellow country man Aurelien Raphael and Australian Aaron Farlow.
On the final lap Farlow and Luis broke away, but Raphael hit back on the final straight to finish second in a time of 1:48:52, while Farlow took third in 1:48:53.

The best of the Irish contenders was Gavin Noble, who came home ninth in a time of 1:50:48, taking the Irish Championship title as the highest home finisher.
Noble started fast and was well placed during the cycle but several fruitless efforts to break away ahead of the run meant he faded during the final laps.
This was the third year of Waterways Ireland TriAthlone with 1,500 people taking part in the event.
This was also the first year that Ireland had hosted an ITU European Cup race and in 2010 TriAthlone will be the first Irish venue for the European Triathlon Championships.

To view the "Waterways Ireland TriAthlone" TV programme which was aired on Tuesday 15th July, go to the following website: http://www.rte.ie/sport/av/av_sportsvideo20080715.html

-ends-

Green Cap Age Group start
The first wave of the Waterways Ireland Age Group race prepares for their swim start.

Women's Elite presentation
Emma Davis (Ireland) who came second; with Lenka Zemanova (Czech Republic), winner in a time of 2:01:19; and Felicity Sheedy Ryan from Australia who came third.

Elite Mens start
The start of the Men's 2008 Athlone ITU Triathlon European Cup Race

Elite Men's presentation
Aurelien Raphael (France); Vincent Luis (France), the winner in a time of 1:48:49; and in third place, Australian Aaron Farlow.

Complaints Procedure

Information provided to customers on how to complain if they are dissatisfied with the services provided.


Title	Section	Class

WI Complaints Procedure	Marketing and Communications	Customer Advice

Click on any of the publications above to download.

Outdoor Advertising Campaign

MAJOR BILLBOARD CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCED BY WATERWAYS IRELAND

Waterways Ireland the body responsible for the inland navigations on the island of Ireland today announced details of a major advertising campaign.

The campaign consists of a series of five adverts centred on the themes of relaxation, exhilaration, contentment, character and nature which promote different aspects of the waterways such as boating, water sports, angling, heritage and nature. The adverts are being displayed on billboards and adshel facilities in over 100 locations across Belfast, Coleraine, Enniskillen, Dublin, Limerick, Athlone and Carrick-on-Shannon. The campaign will run from the 17th of July to the 13th of August.

Speaking at the announcement Mr. Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland said that the campaign aims to focus attention on the wonderful resource that is Ireland's inland waterways. "Ireland's inland waterways provide a unique experience for everyone. They provide a natural environment with excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of activities, from high adventure to total relaxation", said Mr. Dennany. He added that the adverts were specifically produced to drive business through the award winning Waterways Ireland website and on to the many links contained therein.

PDF's of the adverts and other information can be viewed on the www.waterwaysireland.org.

- ends -

For further information, contact the Waterways Ireland Press Office at +353 71 9650787 or +353 87 9918412

Date: 20.07.2006
PR06022

Click on links below to download pdfs of the Billboard and Adshel Advertising Campaigns

Refurbishment at Ardanaffrin

REFURBISHMENT OF QUAY AREA AT ARDANAFFRIN BRIDGE (NEAR JAMESTOWN) COMPLETE

Waterways Ireland is delighted to announce that the refurbishment and enhancement of the quay area at Ardanaffrin Bridge, near Jamestown has been completed.

The project included paving, landscaping and a new access pathway for boat users along with the introduction of a seating and picnic area. The total cost for the works was approximately €35,000.

Waterways Ireland has a programme of ongoing investment in upgrading and developing facilities on the Shannon Navigation. The Shannon Navigation, which includes the River Shannon and its lakes, is navigable over a distance of 215 km from Lough Allen, Co Leitrim to the sea at Limerick. Waterways Ireland has recently completed the installation of new public moorings in Carrick-on-Shannon with berths for up to 28 boats. Work on the new service block to provide toilet and shower facilities for boat users in Carrick-on-Shannon is due to be completed by late Summer (this element is being co-funded by Leitrim County Council).

Other works currently underway on the Shannon Navigation include new public marina facilities in Garrykennedy on Lough Derg and Portrunny on Lough Ree. Approval has also been recently given by Roscommon County Council for new moorings at Kilglass Lake (North Shannon). The existing mooring site will be taken over by Waterways Ireland shortly and work will commence on upgrading the facilities and moorings in the Autumn.

Waterways Ireland is the North/South Implementation Body responsible for managing, maintaining, developing and restoring the inland navigable waterways throughout the island.

- ends -

Further information from:
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 14.07.2006
PR06021

Photo of the newly refurbished quay at Ardanaffrin, Co Roscommon (near Jamestown).

Cleighran More Harbour

OPENING OF CLEIGHRAN MORE, LOUGH ALLEN AND LAUNCH OF LOUGH ALLEN FESTIVAL

The Cleighran More Harbour near Ballinaglera in Co. Leitrim on the east shore of Lough Allen will be officially opened by �amon o Cu�v, T.D., Minister for Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs at 2.00pm on Friday 03 June 2005.

The Cleighran More Harbour project which was carried out by Waterways Ireland, commenced in May 2004 and was funded as part of the National Development Plan at a cost of approximately €500,000. The project involved the replacement of the old jetties which were unprotected and open to the lake winds generated across Lough Allen and the building of a new breakwater protection to shield moored craft from the wave action generated by the prevailing south west winds across the lake. The new jetties accommodate 16 craft. The project also included a new car park and new access from the road to facilitate access for emergency services.

The Opening also marks the launch of the inaugural Lough Allen Festival which offers a varied line-up of activities to cater for all ages including The National Free Style Windsurfing Competition, complimentary boat trips on Lough Allen, Raft Challenges and Kayak and Windsurfing taster sessions, all sponsored by Waterways Ireland. The Festival is being promoted by the Ballinaglera-Boho Tourism Partnership, the cross-border ecotourism initiative.

Waterways Ireland is the North/South implementation body responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways, including the Shannon Navigation, principally for recreational purposes.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications,
Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412, or
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 30.05.2005
PR050016

Cleighran More Harbour

OPENING OF CLEIGHRAN MORE, LOUGH ALLEN AND LAUNCH OF LOUGH ALLEN FESTIVAL

- ends -

Further information from:

Date: 30.05.2005
PR050016

2008 TriAthlone Preparations

Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2008

The Waterways Ireland Inspector of Navigation has issued a number of Marine Notices to advise on river activity relating to the set up and running of the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2008.

This year the Swim section of the race will take place between the Town Bridge and the Railway Bridge and the race pontoon will be installed in a new location near the Athlone Boat Club.

The first Marine Notice (number 39) advises users of the Shannon Navigation of the following navigation restrictions in the days leading up to and including the day of the race:

Swimming Course Preparation
This will commence on Wednesday 9th July and will include workboats installing floating pontoons and booms and temporary aids to navigation. Vessels engaged in this work will be hampered in their ability to manoeuvre so masters are requested to give them a wide berth when passing and to do so with minimum wash.

Race Pontoon
The race pontoon will be installed approximately 300m North of the Town Bridge, in the vicinity of the Athlone Boat Club. It will be placed at right angles to the Western river bank and extend 60m into the navigation. An alternative navigation channel will be marked on the Eastern side of the river.

Masters should NOT make their vessels fast to this pontoon at any time as it is a temporary structure and not designed to take the forces associated with mooring vessels.

Lock Opening Hours on Saturday 12th July
Masters and users of the Shannon Navigation are advised that the swimming contest of the above triathlon event will take place on Saturday 12th July 2008 and navigation restrictions will be in operation between the Town Bridge and the Athlone By-Pass Bridge, namely:

Lock Opening Times for Sat 12th July:
From 11.00hrs until 15.00 hrs
From 16.00 hrs until 17.30 hrs
From 18.30 hrs until 20.30 hrs

Masters are requested to note any instructions issued by Waterways Inspectorate staff and any advice offered by race marshals when approaching the course. Vessels should proceed at slow speed and with minimum wash at all times when navigating this area.

In the second Marine Notice (number 40), the Waterways Ireland Inspector of Navigation advises on the removal of unauthorised single point moorings in Athlone:

Notice is hereby given that Waterways Ireland intends to remove all unauthorised single point moorings in the Shannon Navigation between Athlone Railway Bridge and Athlone Town Bridge, in accordance with the Shannon Navigation Bye-Laws 1992, to facilitate a change in the navigable channel for the "Waterways Ireland TriAthlone" triathlon prior to the 12th July 2008.

Waterways Ireland thanks masters for their co-operation and assistance in these matters.

Copies of the full Marine Notices are available from the Waterways Ireland website at www.waterwaysireland.org (see "Navigation Information").

The Waterways Ireland triAthlone will be one of the highlights of the sporting calendar in Ireland with over 1,500 competitors taking part including top international triathletes who will race in the Irish Championships and European Cup Race also taking place in Athlone on July 12th as part of the Waterways Ireland triAthlone.

- Ends -

Further information from:
Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412

PR08008
Date: 23.06.2008

Triathlon Bid Success

ATHLONE ANNOUNCED AS LOCATION FOR EUROPEAN TRIATHLON CHAMPIONSHIPS
2010

Last week the European Triathlon Union (ETU) announced that Athlone will host the 2010 European Triathlon Championships. This will be the first time that Ireland will host such a prestigious event which is the highlight of the European triathlon calendar.

Athlone was represented by a bid delegation comprising the organisers of the triAthlone which has been sponsored by Waterways Ireland since its inception last year.

Liam Heavin, Chairman of the triAthlone organising committee spoke of the significance of the announcement for Athlone.

He said, "The decision of the ETU to choose Athlone confirms the potential and scope Ireland has to host international sporting events. We are extremely proud to bring this sporting event to Athlone and would like to acknowledge the backing of the title sponsors, Waterways Ireland, whose support of the event was crucial for the success of the bid".

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland spoke of the significance of the announcement for the inland waterways.

He said, "Waterways Ireland was delighted to play an instrumental role in attracting a major sporting event to Ireland. This event will create an even greater awareness of the unique recreational resource that is the inland waterway system. I would like to congratulate the triAthlone organising committee on a superb achievement and I hope that we will be able to look forward to a successful bid to host a World Championships in Athlone in the future".

The 2007 Waterways Ireland triAthlone, which takes place on July 14th, will see over 1,300 competitors take part in what will be Ireland's biggest ever triathlon and one of the largest races in Europe this year.

The River Shannon will provide a spectacular backdrop to the event which commences with a 750m swim along the river Shannon which flows through Athlone town, followed by a 20km cycle and 5km run around and through the streets of Athlone.

Further information on the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2007 is available from info@triathlone.com or from the event website www.triathlone.com.

- ends -

Further info from:
Karen Cunningham, Waterways Ireland triAthlone, 00 353 87 217 4112, karen@triathlone.com, or
Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 965 0787 or 00 353 87 991 8412.

Date: 06.07.07
PR07011

Competitors lining up for the start of the triAthlone in 2006

Environment and Heritage

Environment and Heritage Policy

Phase I of this consultation period is now complete. Waterways Ireland would like to thank all those who took the time and effort to review this interim policy.

09/40 Waterways Ireland WaterM

Issued 21.09.09

Waterways Ireland WaterMaster shines at National Ploughing Championships

Waterways Ireland WaterMaster Classic III has taken central stage at the National Ploughing Championships in Athy, Co Kildare. The WaterMaster - a floating multipurpose excavator, one of two owned by Waterways Ireland, is based on the 1000km of navigable waterways managed by the organisation, north and south.

With a tool kit of seven different attachments including; a Movax side-grip piling hammer, tree shears, dredging pump and floating discharge pipes and excavating buckets and rake, the WaterMaster Classic III is fully occupied throughout the year. The Waterways Ireland WaterMaster undertakes land-based work from the shore when the shore is inaccessible or with limited access as well as tasks such as the placement of navigation markers in the waterway using the pile driving attachment.

Waterways Ireland will also have in attendance the 'Inis Aingin' a 7.6m long Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). Used by Waterways Ireland Inspectorate in the performance of their duties the Rib is highly manoeuvrable in the narrow channels and canals managed by the organisation.

Waterways Ireland is the navigation authority for the Barrow Navigation, the Erne System, the Grand Canal, the Lower Bann, the Royal Canal, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, and the Shannon Navigation. Waterways Ireland will also have a stand at the show providing information on recreation on the inland waterways

Visit Waterways Ireland at the National Ploughing Championships at Stand Number 171 Row J, and in the Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Marquee.

Planned Works

Information on Current and Planned works

Shannon-Erne Waterway


Erne System


Grand Canal


Barrow Navigation


Lower Bann Navigation


Royal Canal


Shannon Navigation

General Works

Policy Information

Please click on the links below to find further information on Waterways Ireland's policies and contact details with regards to Customer Services, Data Protection, Freedom of Information, Environmental & Heritage and Equality.

Customer Services

Data Protection

Freedom of Information

Environmental & Heritage

Equality

Policy Information

Customer Services

Data Protection

Freedom of Information

Environmental & Heritage

Equality

Safety on the Water

Waterways Ireland would like to encourage responsible use of the waterways. A leaflet has been produced to guide all users on the inland navigations in compliance with the bye-laws. You can download this leaflet by clicking on the "Good Boating Guide" Link below.

Enjoy Yourself - Come Home Safely!

Water Safety Guidelines

Inspector of Navigation Contact
Details:

Waterways Ireland

Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
The Docks
Athlone
+353 (0) 90 6494232

Assistant Inspector of Navigation
Contact Details:

Waterways Ireland

Assistant Inspector of Navigation
Waterways Ireland
Harbour Street
Tullamore
+353 (0) 506 52300

Lough Erne Warden's Office
Contact Details:

Waterways Ireland

Lough Erne Warden's Office
Waterways Ireland
Castle lane
Portora
BT74 5GH
Enniskillen
+44 (0) 28 6632 2836

Abridged Bye-Laws for the Erne System

Abridged Bye-Laws for the Shannon Navigation

Canals Act 1986 (Bye-Laws) 1988

Canals Act 1986

Canals Act 1986 (Vesting Day) Order 1986

Special Notice to Mariners

09/39 Discover Mullingar

issued 14.09.09

Discover Mullingar Launched

Mullingar has been chosen as the fourth location in the Lakelands and Inland Waterways region to host an open day, showcasing what is on offer in the area and is organised by Failte Ireland, Waterways Ireland and Westmeath County Council, with a committee made up of local businesses, supported by Mullingar Chamber of Commerce, County Westmeath Tourism Limited and Westmeath Sports Partnership and chaired by Dara O'Reilly-Daly, Managing Director of Dara Marketing.

The open day will take place on Sunday September 27th from 12-6pm, and will provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the tourism assets of the Mullingar region. Local's will be able to enjoy a historical walking tour of Mullingar, boat trips, angling demonstrations, food demonstrations, farmers market, arts & crafts, sports demonstrations and lots more...

Damien Brennan, Business Development Manager, Failte Ireland - East & Midlands said:
'Ireland's Lakelands and Inland Waterways can provide unique experiences for everyone. The natural environment provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural and outdoor activities. We hope the "Discover Mullingar Day" will highlight the role that Mullingar plays as a key attraction within the Lakelands. It will also give local people a greater awareness of what to see and do in their community and therefore, allow them to act as ambassadors for their region with both domestic and overseas visitors.'

Speaking at the launch in the new County Buildings last evening, the Cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council Cllr Fintan Cooney agreed.

'The people of Mullingar are indeed our best ambassadors and the County Council is pleased to lead in conjunction with Failte Ireland and Waterways Ireland in highlighting awareness of our visitor facilities among the local population through this showcase event and enhancing their capacity to promote tourism in Mullingar.

The Discover Mullingar initiative is part of a broader campaign to develop and promote Ireland's Lakeland's and Inland's Waterways and which aims to significantly boost visitor numbers to the Lakeland regions over the next three years.

According to �anna Rowe, Head of Marketing & Communications for Waterways Ireland 'Waterways Ireland is delighted to support and be centrally involved with the Discover Mullingar initiative. Having delivered similar initiatives in Enniskillen, Carrick on Shannon and Athlone already this year I am confident that once again the day will be a great success, showcasing all the attractions and facilities on Mullingar's doorstep and providing a platform for future development of the recreational and tourism potential of this Lakelands town.

Certain areas around the centre of Mullingar will have no through vehicular traffic on Sunday 27th September from early morning until after the event and diversions will be in place. For map and details see www.westmeathcoco.ie

WI Financial Memorandum

click here to download

'07 Riverfest

Waterways Ireland Riverfest 2007

The inaugural Waterways Ireland Riverfest in association with the Lower Bann Partnership and Coleraine Borough Council took place at Christie Park on the Lower Bann last weekend. The event saw World Champion barefoot waterskiers, local and National wakeboarders, waterskiers, and jetskiers excite the crowds. Competitive rowing, the Services Challenge, a Viking Invasion and a huge number of visitors enjoyed the June sunshine all day. Late into the evening thousands of people milled around watching the free concerts and huge firework laser show over the Lower Bann. The overwhelming success of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest has confirmed the Lower Bann as a wonderful asset to the town and will hopefully form the cornerstone of future events in Christie Park.

The Waterways Ireland Riverfest showcased the range of activities which can be enjoyed on the Lower Bann. All waterway users are reminded that the Lower Bann is zoned for different activities. Traffic travelling the length of navigation is welcome but specific activities should be undertaken in the appropriate designated zone. For example, a "No Wash Zone" is suitable for activities which do not create a wash or wake such as angling, rowing, canoeing etc. A Wash is the flow of water behind every craft powered by an engine, which causes a disturbance in the water.

Zone		Activity
Cranagh Marina to Coleraine Marina		Powered Watersport Zone
Coleraine Marina to Loughan Island (south)		No Wash Zone
Loughan Island - Drumaheglis		Powered Watersport Zone
Drumaheglis - Ferrystown Wood		No Wash Zone
Ferrystown Wood -Moneygran Wood (by special arrangement)		Barefoot Waterskiing Zone
Moneygran Wood - 50m upstream of first fishing stand at Glenone Forest		No Wash Zone
50m upstream of first fishing stand at Glenone Forest - Newferry		Powered Watersport Zone
Newferry - Lough Beg		Jetski Zone
Lough Beg- Toomebridge		No Wash Zone

For more information please contact the Waterways Ireland Office in Coleraine on 028 7034 4342.

- Ends -

Further information from:
Rob Skelly, Tel +44 (0)77 1001 5067 or
Katrina Mc Girr, Tel + 44 (0)28 6634 6209
Date: 12.06.2007 PR07010

Cortober Riverside Green Area

Work Commences on riverside green area in Cortober

The much anticipated redevelopment of the riverside green area adjacent to the Bridge in Cortober, Carrick-on-Shannon commenced on June 9th.

Roscommon County Council has been working on this project for over 12 months taking the project from original concept through the design and tendering processes and subsequent appointment of main construction contractor.

Waterways Ireland has worked with Roscommon County Council on the project from the outset and has contributed significantly to the redevelopment works by making the site available, contributing to the design phase, as well as part-financing the project.

The redevelopment scheme, which was designed by a Dublin based Landscape Architecture firm, Murray and Associates, consists of features including new paving and pathways, a new harbour edge and harbour railing (designed to be in keeping with the new board-walk on the opposite side of the river), terracing and grading, major landscape works including new planting and shrubberies. Most of the new park will be wheelchair accessible however some aspects of the site will not, as certain features cannot be changed including the Limestone Steps at the bridge end of the park.

Roscommon County Council appointed Streamline Construction, a Sligo based company, by means of tender process to undertake the work earlier in 2008. The start of the work was postponed until now to allow for water levels to recede sufficiently to enable work to commence in a safe manner.

The County Manager of Roscommon County Council, Mr John Tiernan, stated that he was delighted to see work commencing on this very worthwhile project and further added that he was thankful for the significant contribution Waterways Ireland has made to the project, both at the design stage as well as their financial input.

Mr John Martin, Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland added his congratulations to Roscommon County Council on the commencement of this project and for the initiative and pro-active approach to river and water side amenity development along the River Shannon. He added, "Waterways Ireland is delighted to be involved in the development of recreational resources along the River Shannon in partnership with local Councils as we have done so with Leitrim County Council for the service block at the new moorings and Riverside park in Carrick on Shannon and now for the Cortober green area in conjunction with Roscommon County Council. The River Shannon is one of the finest assets to the tourism industry in Ireland and it is wonderful to see a collaborative approach being taken to enhance it further for visitors and locals alike".

Roscommon County Council and Waterways Ireland have worked on a number of projects together in the past number of years combining expertise, resources and capital to provide high class tourism amenities and facilities along the Shannon Waterway including developments at Ballyleague, Kilglass Lakes, Boyle Harbour, and Portrunny. These projects have demonstrated that by working in partnership both agencies can achieve more than if working individually.

The design scheme of the new park has allowed for the possibility of additional boat jetties and fishing stands to be developed from the Roscommon side of the river in the future. However, there are no plans afoot to develop either of these at present.

Construction work in Cortober is likely to take up to four months during which time public access to the amenity area will be restricted at all times. Parents are asked to be vigilant in informing children of the dangers of building sites and ensuring that they do not enter the site at any time. Roscommon County Council regrets any inconvenience caused while work is underway.

Press Information

Waterways Ireland's Press Office is based in the Carrick-on-Shannon office. For media queries or copies of any press releases please contact the Press Office at the contact details below.

Waterways Ireland

Press Office
Waterways Ireland
Somerview House
Old Dublin Road
Carrick-on-Shannon
+353 71 9650898

Click Here to Go to Press Releases

Press Information

Waterways Ireland's Press Office is based in the Carrick-on-Shannon office. For media queries or copies of any press releases please contact the Press Office at the contact details below.

Waterways Ireland

Press Office
Waterways Ireland
Somerview House
Old Dublin Road
Carrick-on-Shannon
+353 71 9650898

Click Here to Go to Press Releases

Belfast Launch of A Taste of..

LAUNCH OF "A TASTE OF THE WATERWAYS, FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK"

A new book "A Taste of the Waterways, Favourite Places to Eat and Drink" was officially launched by David Hanson MP, Minister for Culture Arts and Leisure on Tuesday 26th July.

The Guide, sponsored by Waterways Ireland features, restaurants and hostelries along the seven waterways within the remit of Waterways Ireland and includes reviews, photos and contact details.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister said: "This new publication is an imaginative way of promoting the local waterway economies and attracting new tourists. Its success should contribute in many ways to the social and economic regeneration of many rural areas along the banks of Ireland's key navigation routes."

The book, published by Waterways Ireland, is distributed free of charge to all registered Boat Owners North and South and to Tourist Information Offices throughout Europe. It also outlines suggested routes for navigating the waterways with lists of places to visit, stay, eat and drink along the way.

The Waterways included in the Guide are: the Barrow Navigation, the Erne System, the Grand Canal, the Lower Bann Navigation, the Royal Canal, the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway.

The book's author, Georgina Campbell, commented: "The independently assessed guide will lead to many enjoyable experiences and will leave many happy memories of Ireland's wonderful waterways."

Speaking at the Launch, Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications of Waterways Ireland said: "Two of the pillars of the Marketing and Promotion Strategy of Waterways Ireland are promoting greater use of the Waterways and building a platform for sustained market development, and this new Guide contributes to these aims".

He continued: "The 2004 Guide only covered three of the waterways, but due to its success, the current Guide has been extended to all seven waterways and I look forward to receiving feedback on the Guide from our customers."

Waterways Ireland is the North/South implementation body responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways principally for recreational purposes.

Copies of the "A Taste of the Waterways, Favourite Places to Eat and Drink" may be obtained free of charge from the Waterways Ireland Marketing and Communications Division in Enniskillen at 028 66346 219.

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland,
00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412, or
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 15.08.2005
PR050021

At the Launch of "A Taste of the Waterways, Favourite Places to Eat and Drink", sponsored by Waterways Ireland, from left, Georgina Campbell, Author of the Guide; Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland; and David Hanson, MP, Minister of State at the Northern Ireland Office

Location: Stormont Castle, Belfast.

2006 Triathlone

ENNISKILLEN'S OLYMPIC HOPEFUL GAVIN NOBLE WINS THE WATERWAYS IRELAND TRIATHLONE 2006

Despite the wind and rain, Enniskillen's Gavin Noble produced a sparkling performance to win the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006 in authoritative fashion. The inaugural running of a triathlon in Athlone signalled a bid for the town to host the European Championships in 5 years time. Waterways Ireland, the North/South body which has responsibility for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of inland navigable waterways was the title sponsor for the event.

Gavin Noble's show of strength on the challenging Athlone course of a 750m Swim, 20km bike and 5km run, saw him complete the course in 56 minutes 33 seconds. The reigning Irish Champion, who was also 15th in the recent Commonwealth Games was first out of the water, followed closely by two up-and-coming Irish athletes Simon Biddell and 16 year old Junior Heffernan. Trevor Woods, 3rd in World Age Group Championships 2 years ago came out of the swim in 4th place.

Noble put 1 minute into the chasing pair on the bike in very windy, treacherous conditions. Over the 20km bike distance the slower swimmers worked together to try and reel in the leaders. Despite their best efforts, Noble kept a comfortable lead into the testing run course consisting of 3 laps of Athlone town centre. He comfortably held his lead, cruising to victory in a fabulous time of 56 minutes 33 seconds. The experienced Trevor Woods, with a very fine run finished in second place overtaking Simon Biddell in 3rd and Junior Heffernan in 4th.

Further information on the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006 is available from
info@triathlone.com or from the event website, www.triathlone.com.

- ends -

Further information from:
info@triathlone.com or
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 09.07.2006

Photograph � Gordon Thompson

Gavin Noble winner of the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing & Communications, Waterways Ireland & Gavin Noble, Winner of Waterways Ireland TriAthlone 2006

Launch of triAthlone 2006

LAUNCH OF WATERWAYS IRELAND TRIATHLONE 2006
BIDDING TO HOST EUROPEAN & WORLD TRIATHLON CHAMPIONSHIPS

John O'Donoghue, T.D., Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism officially launched the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006 yesterday afternoon, Wednesday 28th June. The Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006 takes place on Saturday July 8th in Athlone, Co Westmeath. The event commences with a 750m swim along the river Shannon which flows through Athlone town, followed by a 20km cycle and 5km run around and through the streets of Athlone. This is the first time that a triathlon of this size has been staged on an inland waterway. Over 600 competitors are expected to take part with up to 100 elite athletes competing in a separate event later on Saturday evening.

A large entry from Northern Ireland is confirmed including Gavin Noble from Enniskillen who came 15th in the recent Commonwealth Games in Australia. Earlier this month in Turkey he became the first Irish man to win a European Triathlon Cup Race.

The River Shannon will provide a spectacular backdrop to the swim part of the triathlon and will test the endurance of all competitors as they swim 400m upstream against the current before turning and swimming downstream for the remaining 350m.

The title sponsor for the event is Waterways Ireland, which is the North/South Body responsible for the management of the inland navigable waterway system. Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications with Waterways Ireland spoke of the significance of triAthlone. He said, "This is a unique event and one which we hope will grow to a European and even World ranking triathlon. Waterways Ireland is delighted to be title sponsor and we hope that its success will create an even greater awareness of the unique recreational resource that is the inland waterway system".

"The town of Athlone is synonymous with the river, the lake and the water; and therefore we feel it is apt that Waterways Ireland has agreed to take title sponsorship for Athlone's premier sporting event" said Liam Heavin, Head of triAthlone. "This is our first step in the bidding process for the European and World Triathlon Championships which we are hoping to host in Athlone. Together with the Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce and the fantastic support shown by all of our sponsors including Waterways Ireland, we feel that we are in a position to bring one of the World's biggest sporting spectaculars to Ireland" he added.

Further information on the Waterways Ireland triAthlone 2006 is available from
info@triathlone.com or from the event website, www.triathlone.com.

- ends -

Further information from:
info@triathlone.com or
Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 29.06.2006

"Teeing off triAthlone with Minister O'Donoghue and the Ryder Cup"

Pictured from left to right: Liam Heavin, CEO, triAthlone; John O'Donoghue, Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism; Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing & Communications, Waterways Ireland; and Paul Keeley, Marketing Director, Failte Ireland.

"Launching triAthlone - bidding for the European and World Triathlon Championships"

Pictured from left to right: Colm Breheny, Manager Professional Development, Failte Ireland; Liam Heavin, CEO, triAthlone; John O'Donoghue, Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism; Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing & Communications, Waterways Ireland; and Paul Keeley, Marketing Director, Failte Ireland.

Dublin Launch of A Taste of..

LAUNCH OF "A TASTE OF THE WATERWAYS, FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK"

The Launch of the new "A Taste of the Waterways, Favourite Places to Eat and Drink" took place on Thursday 7th July 2005, at the Grand Canal in Dublin. The Guide was officially launched by Mr �amon o Cu�v, T.D., Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. Georgina Campbell, the Guide's author and Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications Waterways Ireland, also officiated.

The Guide features restaurants and hostelries along the seven waterways within the remit of Waterways Ireland and includes reviews, photos and contact details. It also outlines suggested routes for navigating the waterways with lists of places to visit, stay, eat and drink along the way. The Waterways included in the Guide are: the Barrow Navigation, the Erne System, the Grand Canal, the Lower Bann Navigation, the Royal Canal, the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway.

The Guide is sponsored by Waterways Ireland and distributed free of charge to all registered Boat Owners North and South and to Tourist Information Offices throughout Europe. Speaking at the launch, the Minister said that the Guide is "A very valuable marketing tool for creating awareness of the waterway amenities which will increase the number of visitors to the waterways all year round with ensuing economic benefits for service providers and the local economies".

Georgina Campbell commented that "The independently assessed guide will lead to many enjoyable experiences and will leave many happy memories of Ireland's wonderful waterways". Speaking at the Launch, Martin Dennany said that "Promoting greater use of the Waterways and building a platform for sustained market development are two of the pillars of the Marketing and Promotion Strategy of Waterways Ireland and the Guide will contribute towards these aims". He continued, "Due to the success of the 2004 Guide, Waterways Ireland decided to extend the Guide to include all 7 waterways and I look forward to receiving feedback from our customers in relation to the Guide and its contents".

Copies of the "A Taste of the Waterways, Favourite Places to Eat and Drink" may be obtained free of charge from the Waterways Ireland Marketing and Communications Division at +353 71 9650787 (Carrick on Shannon) or +44 28 66346 219 (Enniskillen).

- ends -

Further information from:

Ms. Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412. Or:
Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 44 28 66346203.

Date: 11.07.2005
PR050019

At the Launch of "A Taste of the Waterways, Favourite Places to Eat and Drink", sponsored by Waterways Ireland, are (from left): Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland; Mr �amon o Cu�v, T.D., Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs; and Georgina Campbell, Author of the Guide;

Location: The Grand Canal, Dublin.

2008 Riverfest Launch

Peter O'Hara showcases his skills on the Lower Bann.

SOAK UP THE 2008 WATERWAYS IRELAND RIVERFEST

ROWING, Jet skiing, bare footing and wakeboarding are just some of the highlights of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest, taking place in Coleraine on June 14 and 15. The two day event on the Bann was officially launched this week by organisers Rob Skelly of the Edge Watersports Warehouse, Waterways Ireland and Coleraine Borough Council.

Following the success of last year's inaugural Riverfest organisers have pulled together a full programme of great watersports complemented by fantastic family entertainment at Christie Park, Coleraine. The event will feature river based activities performed by world class experts. Dr Janet Gray MBE, World Disabled Waterski champion and Northern Ireland personality of year, will be wowing the crowds with her fantastic displays. Andre De Villiers - World Bare Foot Champion, Andy McDonald - Ireland's Number one in Barefooting and World Champion free style Jet Skier and Ant Burgess will all be there to showcase their amazing skills.

Rowing is one of the most popular and long established watersports on the lower Bann, the prestigious Waterways Ireland Rowing regatta will be held over the two days and will attract rowers from all over Northern Ireland.

There will be many family attractions over the two days, including, Bouncy castles, a climbing wall, face painters, a lazer quest, live music, a boat display, and range of stalls. Live music from Ken Haddock and King Biscuit and a spectacular fireworks display over the River Bann will round up Saturday's events.

Rob Skelly, of the Edgewater Watersports Warehouse who is managing the event is busying finalising the plans for June, he said; "The Waterways Ireland Riverfest will bring watersports enthusiasts from all over the country to Coleraine and although the focus is on the River Bann, we are committed to attracting beginners and families to come and get a taste of how safe and exciting watersports can be and to enjoy the on shore activities at Christie Park.

"I am delighted that we have so many high profile names joining us on the water this year, we have also added in a 'come and try it' challenge which includes experiencing rowing, sailing and jet skiing. I would like to thank Waterways Ireland for sponsoring the event and Coleraine Borough Council for their unrivalled support".

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing Communications, Waterways Ireland, added; "The Waterways Ireland Riverfest is an important festival on the Waterway Calendar and Waterways Ireland are delighted to support the event both to raise awareness of the beauty and diversity of the Lower Bann nationwide, but also to encourage local people to use the river as a wonderful recreation asset."

Mayor of Coleraine, Maurice Bradley addressed everyone launch, he said;
"I welcome Waterways Ireland representatives to Coleraine and on behalf of Coleraine Borough Council may I express my appreciation to both them and Rob Skelly for their dedication to this event. I look forward to working in partnership with Rob and Waterways Ireland for many years to come.

"It is a joy to see that this event focuses on families and I hope it brings out people from all over the Borough and further afield".

The Waterways Ireland Riverfest will take place from Christie Park, Coleraine on14th June from 11am to 11pm and 15th June from 1pm to 6pm, for more information see www.waterwaysirelandriverfest.co.uk

- ends -

Issued Thursday 22nd May 2008
For further information please contact Tara Cunningham, tel. +44 (0)7034 7042 or Denise Ward, tel. +44 (0) 7034 7082.

Ranked number one in Ireland for Bare footing, Andy McDonald displays his phenomenal talent on the Lower Bann at the official launch of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest.

Caite Skelly, Aged 8, showcasing her talent on the River Bann at the official launch of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest.

Mayor of Coleraine, Cllr Maurice Bradley; Katrina McGirr, Waterways Ireland; and Rob Skelly from the Edgewater Watersports Warehouse pictured with participants of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest.

'07 Results Classic Fishing

RESULTS OF THE WATERWAYS IRELAND CLASSIC FISHING FESTIVAL 2007

The three-day Waterways Ireland Classic came to a close on Friday 18th May with an exciting finish. Ross-on-Wye angler, and first day winner, Richard Hoskins, emerged victorious with a total of 71kgs 700gms. His 7kgs catch on the final day clinched the Classic title for 2007, landing him a prize of �3,000 and a crystal trophy. Close behind in second place was Allan Reid from Omagh, with 65kgs 950gms and he collected �1,500 and a crystal trophy as a reward for his efforts. In third place was another Northern Irish angler, John Walker, from Lurgan, his 64kgs 760gms total for the week netting him �1,000 and a crystal trophy. In fourth place overall was Nottingham visitor, Matthew Hall, with previous winner, Simon Young, from Doncaster in fifth, and four-times World Champion, Bob Nudd, in sixth place.

The early Spring and warm weather of the past few weeks affected the fortunes of the 250 anglers taking part in the 2007 Waterways Ireland Classic. In the run up to the competition it became obvious that the roach population of Enniskillen had spawned and departed for the deeper waters of Lower Lough Erne. The Classic organisers made significant changes to the sections being used for the event, introducing new venues outside of Enniskillen town. It was one of these, Phil's Bay, at Tamlaght, that produced the top 4 weights in the final day of the competition. Two Lurgan anglers, John Walker and Brian McShane, caught 61kgs 760gms and 46kgs 480gms, respectively, from adjacent pegs 14 and 15, on this picturesque and productive lake.

Organised by Fermanagh District Council, the festival is sponsored for the fifth year by Waterways Ireland, the North/South implementation body responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways system.

- ends -

Further info from:
Eddie McGovern, Fermanagh District Council on 00 44 28 6632 3110; or
Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 21.05.07
PR07010

Angler Richard Hoskins, Ross-on-Wye, overall winner of the 2007 Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival.

Richard Hoskins, Ross-on-Wye, overall winner of the Waterways Ireland 2007 Classic Fishing Festival, receiving his award from Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland. Included are (back, from left) Eddie McGovern, Fermanagh District Council, festival organiser; John Walker, Lurgan, who finished third overall; John O'Kane, Chairman of Fermanagh District Council and Allan Reid, Omagh, second overall.

09/38 Crowds descend on Carric

Crowds descend on Carrick-on-Shannon for Waterways Ireland Rowing Regatta

Carrick on Shannon's Annual Rowing event, the Waterways Ireland Sprint Rowing Regatta took place on the bank holiday week-end and once again attracted a large entry from all around the country. 350 people entered, up approximately 10% on 2008, with the four corners of the country represented across the different categories of racing.

The first race of the day began at 9.30am with racing continuing every four minutes when 93 races later at 5.30pm the event closed with the Mens Senior 8 final. Queens University Belfast won the Mens Senior 8 title having come agonisingly close in the National Chapionships just two weeks ago. Killorglin RC, Kerry on their first trip to the event won the Womens Senior 8 title.
The 2 big races of the day - Jonny Curran of London RC won the Mens Senior single sculls while Irish International Monika Dukarska of Killorglin RC won the Womens Senior single sculls over fellow Irish International Dympna Kelly of Carrick on Shannon RC

Watched by a crowd of 400-500 people over the course of the day, the event ran smoothly. The organisers Carrick Rowing Club spoke appreciably about the co-operation of other waterway-users in respecting the safety of the competing rowers and thanked Waterways Ireland for their work in closing the navigation to facilitate the event.

Director of Marketing & Communications with Waterways Ireland Martin Dennany said 'I am delighted that the time spent working with Waterways Ireland in planning the event provided for a smooth running fixture and congratulate the winners on their success and the club on a well-run event.'

Avian Flu

Who to contact if Dead Birds are found on the waterways or other Waterways Ireland property!

The following are the hotline numbers for reporting sightings of dead birds:-

Northern Ireland: 028 9052 4999

Southern Ireland: 1890 252 283

What to look out for:-

It is, in the first instance, important to note that there have been no confirmed cases of H5N1 in the North or South of Ireland.
Incidents of mortality affecting significant numbers of birds at the same time in the same place. Wild bird die-off is characterised by an unusual number of wild bird deaths in one area.
However, where individual dead water fowl (e.g. swans) are noted this should also be reported. When notifying the authorities give as much detail as possible with regard to the location.

Further information is available from the Departments in the North and the South:

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development	www.dardni.gov.uk

The Department of Agriculture and Food	www.agriculture.gov.ie

09/37 'Tri' raises vital funds

'Tri' raises vital funds at the Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon!

150 brave participants donned their swimming, cycling and running gear at Grand Canal Square in Dublin's Docklands on the bank holiday weekend to take part in the Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon supported by Dublin's Q102.

The Focus Ireland Triathlon is the only event of its kind to take place right in the heart of Dublin. Now in its fifth year, it has raised almost half a million euros since 2005 to help fund Focus Irelands' work to combat and prevent homelessness.

The event is a sprint distance challenge which includes a 750m swim in Grand Canal's outer basin, a 20km lapped cycle of Dublin City's historic quays and a 5km run.

Waterways Ireland, who own and manage the Grand Canal Basin facilitated the event through the provision of booms lining the swim course. One of the key aspects of Waterways Ireland remit is to support increased use of the waterways, and this event on the Grand Canal is an ideal fit for both organisations.

Focus Ireland's Fundraising Director, Mark Mellett said, "Fundraisers like these are great fun for the participants and also raise vital funds to help Focus Ireland to continue to provide quality services and campaign on behalf of the most vulnerable in society. The money raised by this event helps us to support many families and single people and to meet their housing and support needs and also hopefully reduce the impact the current economic climate is having on them."

People can play their part by signing up to one of our other challenges such as the Focus Ireland Four Peaks Challenge or UK 3 Peaks Challenge both taking place in September or by making a donation at www.focusireland.ie."

Mr. Mellett added, "Focus Ireland raised €5.7 million from fundraising events, donations and corporate support in 2008. These funds went towards our work to provide support services to up to 6,000 people each year and to help achieve our aim to settle 2010 households by 2010."

To sponsor a participant at the Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon, or to sign up for the Four Peaks Challenge or to find out more about the Challenge Series, Focus Ireland supporters can email events@focusireland.ie or phone 01-881 5900. Alternatively they can log on to www.focusireland.ie and click on the fundraising events section.

Every year 100 volunteers attend the event to ensure that each element of the Triathlon runs smoothly into the next and to support the participants to reach the finish line. Focus Ireland would like to extend their gratitude to Q102, the Garda�, Dublin City Council, Waterways Ireland and the Dublin Docklands Development Authority who have supported the event.

Lough Oughter

New Navigation Proposal

The statutory remit of Waterways Ireland is to manage, maintain, develop and restore the inland navigable waterways, in a sustainable manner. In line with this remit Waterways Ireland are proposing to establish navigation on the Lough Oughter complex in County Cavan, Ireland, from Killeshandra to Belturbet. Waterways Ireland aim to open this navigation to link up with the Shannon-Erne system and possibly even the Ulster Canal.

The Objectives of the Lough Oughter Navigation Plan

Contribute to the sustainable development, restoration and integration of the waterways network of the island of Ireland.
Contribute to managing and maintaining a reliable and high quality waterway network.
Extend the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the Erne System through development of the Lough Oughter Complex.
Aid in delivering the capital works programme under the National Development Plan 2007 - 2013.
Develop the economic and social contribution of the Lough Oughter waterway to sustainable tourism.
Assess, manage and develop the assets of the Lough Oughter waterway.
Protect and develop the natural and archaeological heritage of the Lough Oughter waterway as a living environment with regard to access for all.

The Plan will be implemented with medium and long term goals for the extension of the inland waterway network to include the development of the Lough Oughter Complex. The Plan, its objectives and its goals will be re-evaluated in 2013.

Strategic Environmental Assessment

The Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive will ensure that consideration is given to the environment in implementing the Lough Oughter Navigation Plan. The first step in the SEA process involved a screening step which identified that Strategic Environmental Assessment would be required for the Lough Oughter Navigation Plan. This Draft Consultation Scoping Report was the next step in the process. The Scoping Report (click here) establishes the scope of works involved for the Environmental Assessment.

We would appreciate comments on this scoping report of the Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Lough Oughter Navigation Plan. An Environmental Report will be the outcome of the Strategic Environmental Assessment and will accompany the draft Lough Oughter Navigation Plan. All comments received during this consultation will be considered for the assessment and will be included within the Environmental Report. There will also be further opportunities to comment on the process at later stages of the assessment.

Consultation

Contact Us

Email	info@waterwaysireland.org If you know the name of the person you wish to contact please contact them using firstname.lastname@waterwaysireland.org for example joe.bloggs@waterwaysireland.org If you wish to make an enquiry or you do not know the name of the person you wish to contact use the info email address above.
Headquarters	2 Sligo Road Enniskillen Co Fermanagh BT74 7JY Tel: +44 (0) 28 66 323 004 Fax: +44 (0) 28 66 346 257
Chief Executive	Chief Executive's Office 2 Sligo Road Enniskillen Co Fermanagh BT74 7JY Tel: +44 (0) 28 66 323 004 Fax: +44 (0) 28 66 346 237
Regional Offices	Operations Northern Region Carrick-on-Shannon Somerview House Old Dublin Road Carrick-on-Shannon Co Leitrim Tel: +353 (0) 71 96 50 787 Fax: +353 (0) 71 96 22 866
	Operations Eastern Region Dublin Floor 2 Block C Ashtowngate Navan Road Dublin 15 Tel: +353 (0) 1 868 0148 Fax: +353 (0) 1 838 3647
	Operations Western Region Scarriff Dock Road Drewsborough Scarriff Co Clare Tel: +353 (0) 61 922 033 Fax: +353 (0) 61 922 147
Press Office	Press Office Somerview House Old Dublin Road Carrick-on-Shannon Co Leitrim Tel: +353 (0) 71 96 50 560 Fax: +353 (0) 71 96 22 866
Local Offices	Inspector of Navigation The Docks Athlone Co Westmeath Tel: +353 (0) 90 64 94 232 Fax: +353 (0) 90 64 94 147
	Assistant Inspector of Navigation Tullamore Office Harbour Street Tullamore Co Offaly Tel: +353 (0) 57 9352300 Fax: +353 (0) 57 9351812
	Lough Erne Wardens Office 2 Sligo Road Enniskillen Co Fermanagh BT74 7JY Tel: +44 (0) 28 66 323 004 Fax: +44 (0) 28 66 346 257
	Portumna Office Connaught Harbour Bridge Road Portumna Co Galway Tel: +353 (0) 90 97 41165 Fax: +353 (0) 90 97 41243
	Tullamore Office Harbour Street Tullamore Co Offaly Tel: +353 (0) 57 9352300 Fax: +353 (0) 57 9351812
	Coleraine Office 37 Castleroe Road Coleraine BT51 3RL Tel: +44 (0) 28 703 44342 Fax: +44 (0) 28 703 59530

Contact Us

Email	info@waterwaysireland.org If you know the name of the person you wish to contact please contact them using firstname.lastname@waterwaysireland.org for example joe.bloggs@waterwaysireland.org If you wish to make an enquiry or you do not know the name of the person you wish to contact use the info email address above.
Headquarters	2 Sligo Road Enniskillen Co Fermanagh BT74 7JY Tel: +44 (0) 28 66 323 004 Fax: +44 (0) 28 66 346 257
Chief Executive	Chief Executive's Office 2 Sligo Road Enniskillen Co Fermanagh BT74 7JY Tel: +44 (0) 28 66 323 004 Fax: +44 (0) 28 66 346 237
Regional Offices	Operations Northern Region Carrick-on-Shannon Somerview House Old Dublin Road Carrick-on-Shannon Co Leitrim Tel: +353 (0) 71 96 50 787 Fax: +353 (0) 71 96 22 866
	Operations Eastern Region Dublin Floor 2 Block C Ashtowngate Navan Road Dublin 15 Tel: +353 (0) 1 868 0148 Fax: +353 (0) 1 838 3647
	Operations Western Region Scarriff Dock Road Drewsborough Scarriff Co Clare Tel: +353 (0) 61 922 033 Fax: +353 (0) 61 922 147
Press Office	Press Office Somerview House Old Dublin Road Carrick-on-Shannon Co Leitrim Tel: +353 (0) 71 96 50 560 Fax: +353 (0) 71 96 22 866
Local Offices	Inspector of Navigation The Docks Athlone Co Westmeath Tel: +353 (0) 90 64 94 232 Fax: +353 (0) 90 64 94 147
	Assistant Inspector of Navigation Tullamore Office Harbour Street Tullamore Co Offaly Tel: +353 (0) 57 9352300 Fax: +353 (0) 57 9351812
	Lough Erne Wardens Office 2 Sligo Road Enniskillen Co Fermanagh BT74 7JY Tel: +44 (0) 28 66 323 004 Fax: +44 (0) 28 66 346 257
	Portumna Office Connaught Harbour Bridge Road Portumna Co Galway Tel: +353 (0) 90 97 41165 Fax: +353 (0) 90 97 41243
	Tullamore Office Harbour Street Tullamore Co Offaly Tel: +353 (0) 57 9352300 Fax: +353 (0) 57 9351812
	Coleraine Office 37 Castleroe Road Coleraine BT51 3RL Tel: +44 (0) 28 703 44342 Fax: +44 (0) 28 703 59530

'07 Day2 Fishing Classic

WEDNESDAY 16TH MAY
WATERWAYS IRELAND CLASSIC FISHING FESTIVAL 2007

Changing conditions for Fishing Classic

The second day of the three-day Waterways Ireland Classic saw a change in the weather. The bright sunshine of Monday was replaced by the more typical 'soft' Fermanagh weather, that is warm and damp.

The change in the weather seemed to also bring a change in the fishing, with the previously productive Tamlaght section not performing, but other sections such as the newly introduced 'Phil's Bay' throwing up very significant catches, including the top two weights of the day. Matthew Hall from Nottingham landed a net bursting 47kgs 670gms from Peg 9, while in second place Swindon angler Alan Brown extracted 41kgs 660gms from the neighbouring Peg 10. Joint third overall today went to former World Champion and Classic regular Bob Nudd, along with another regular visitor Mick Bull from Warwick. Top local today was young Enniskillen angler Ryan Kersley, who netted 14kgs 700gms from far away Boa Island.

Today's action brought very little change to the overall leader board, with Monday's winner Richard Hoskins still in pole position for Friday. The Ross-on-Wye angler is just over 15kgs ahead of his nearest rival, Matthew Hall, who zoomed to second place overall thanks to his performance on Wednesday. Kevin Locke from Kesh remains top local overall, no doubt hoping for a repeat of his 50kgs plus catch, landed under the gaze of the BBC TV cameras during Tuesday's 'King of the Erne' competition.

The action continues on Thursday with the second and final day of the King of the Erne competition and the final day of the Waterways Ireland Classic takes place on Friday, when all eyes will be on the draw box.

Organised by Fermanagh District Council, the festival is sponsored for the fourth year by Waterways Ireland, the North/South implementation body responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways system.

- ends -

Further info from:
Eddie McGovern, Fermanagh District Council on 00 44 28 6632 3110; or
Aoife Morrissy, Marketing and Communications, Waterways Ireland, 00 353 71 9650787 or 00 353 87 9918412.

Date: 16.05.07
PR07009

Angler Richard Hoskins from Ross-on-Wye, leading the Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival going into the second day of fishing with a catch of 63.100 kg.

Day3 Classic Fishing Festival

Chairman of Fermanagh District Council, Cllr. Alex Baird with Gus Greaves the winner of the 2008 Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival and John Martin, Chief Executive, Waterways Ireland at the prize giving ceremony on Friday 2nd May in Enniskillen.

FRIDAY 2 MAY

WATERWAYS IRELAND CLASSIC FISHING FESTIVAL 2008

The 2008 Waterways Ireland Classic Fishing Festival finished with a real cliff-hanger today. English-born Irvinestown resident Gus Greaves scooped the top prize of �5,000 and a Crystal Chalice with a winning overall catch of 72kgs 470gms, a mere 50gms ahead of multiple World Champion Bob Nudd.

Going into the final day Wayne Truman from Nottingham held the overall lead, closely followed by Bob Nudd, but Gus' 33kgs 400gms from the improving Rossahilly section catapulted him into top place. Wayne Truman finished third overall with 71kgs 910gms followed by Lee Harries from Oxley with 57kgs 620gms, Neil Mazurek from Cootehill was fifth with a total of 51kgs 700gms and young Newent angler Philip Bendall completed the top six with 46kgs 30gms.

Changing weather conditions throughout the week have added to the unpredictability of the Classic with different sections performing better on different days. The decision to hold the event earlier in the year appears to have paid off, and the average catch per angler has improved on 2007.

The Classic is sponsored for the sixth year by Waterways Ireland and is organised by Fermanagh District Council in conjunction with the Inland Fisheries Division of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.

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For further information please contact Aoife Morrissy, Waterways Ireland on 00 353 71 965 0622 or Eddie McGovern, Fermanagh District Council on 028 6632 3110.

PR08006
Date: 02.05.2008

Waterways Ireland

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All Ireland Daubenton's Bat Waterways Survey
Introducing a Pilot Monitoring Protocol in August 2006