Waterways Ireland advises the public that all navigations have been significantly impacted by Storm Éowyn, resulting in restricted access to towpaths, greenways, blueways and navigation.
While substantial branch and storm debris have already been cleared the inspection, assessment and clean-up efforts are ongoing and will continue for some time. Customers may still encounter restricted access across the network, and we appreciate your patience as we work to restore full accessibility.
Extensive numbers of trees have fallen in the following locations:
• Royal Canal and Royal Canal Greenway from Clondra to Ferns Lock
• Barrow Blueway from Lowtown to Athy.
• Barrow Way from Athy to St Mullins.
• Grand Canal and Grand Canal Greenway from Rahan to Lowtown.
• Movanagher Canal on the Lower Bann
These sections of navigation and Greenway / Blueway are closed until further notice.
Numerous other sites along the Shannon Navigation, Shannon-Erne Waterway and Lough Erne have experienced storm damage and assessment and clearance operation are ongoing.
Advisory to Customers. Waterways Ireland advises all customers to take the following actions:
• Reporting Damage. If you notice damage impacting Waterways Ireland property, please report it by calling 012248204. This includes downed trees blocking towpaths or any damage to navigational markers, to help our operations team prioritise repairs.
• Vessel berths & moorings. Reports of damage to vessels have been received, owners and masters are advised to check their vessels at the earliest opportunity.
Waterways Ireland and the Local Authorities are working to remove the fallen trees. Waterways Ireland thanks its customers for their co-operation in relation to this matter. Update Marine Notices will be issued in due course.
Peter Harty
Inspector of Navigation