Waterways Ireland has reviewed and amended the draft Shannon Navigation Byelaws and draft Canals Byelaws following the closure of phase2 of the public consultation. This work is now complete and the amended version of the documents can be found below.
Phase 2 Public Consultation Reports:
Draft Shannon Navigation Bye-Laws 2024
Bye Laws Public Consultation report - Phase 2 - 10 June 2024
Draft Canals Act 1986 and 2018 (Bye-laws) 2024
Explanatory Note to accompany DRAFT to Shannon Bye-Laws 2024
Explanatory Note to accompany DRAFT Canal Act 1986 and 2018
Please note: there will be no changes to the existing bye-laws, permits, or charges/fees until revised bye-laws are approved.
Closed Consultation
This consultation is now closed. Phase 2 of the public consultation on Draft Revisions to the Shannon Navigation Bye-laws and Grand & Royal Canal and Barrow Navigation Bye-laws was open from 15th January - 26th February 2024. This phase of the process offered all stakeholders an opportunity to consider the modifications to the proposed revised bye-laws as a result of Phase 1 and make a submission.
Summary
This consultation contained information in relation to phase 1 and 2 of Waterways Ireland's public consultation in relation to modifications of the proposed revised bye-laws.
Consultation Description
Grand & Royal Canal, Barrow Navigation
- Reduction in the cost of houseboat permits in the suburban areas on the canals.
- Introduction of a 5-day rule in selected harbours to promote water sports activities.
- Introduction of a 60-day visitor's pass to the canals at a cost of €40.
- EU Recreational Craft Directive applies to boats on the Shannon Navigation and canals.
- Removal of proposed speed limit on greenways and blueways.
Shannon Navigation
- Retention of Winter Mooring on the Shannon Navigation at a fee of €300.
- Retention of the 5-day rule in all harbours on the Shannon Navigation.
- Introduction of a 60-day visitor's pass to the Shannon Navigation at a cost of €40.
- Tenders can be registered with larger boats at no cost.
- The EU Recreational Craft Directive applies to boats on the Shannon Navigation.
- No requirement for permission to dive in the Shannon Navigation.
The development of the draft bye-laws included an in-depth review of the current legislative environment and Waterways Ireland Long Term Plan; consideration of our objective to grow recreational usage of the waterways in a sustainable and responsible manner; current issues and challenges; feedback from Phase 1 and potential future developments.
Consultation Process
Waterways Ireland invited interested parties to consider the draft bye-laws and make a submission. There were three main ways of learning about the proposed changes.
- Attending a Public Information Meeting
- Viewing the draft bye-laws in person at these libraries during their opening hours
- Downloading the draft bye-laws and associated documents below
Phase 1 Public Consultation Report
Draft Shannon Navigation Bye-laws
Explanatory notes for the draft Shannon Navigation Bye-laws
Draft Canal bye-laws (Grand Canal, Royal Canal, Barrow Navigation)
Explanatory Notes for the draft Canal Bye-laws (Grand Canal, Royal Canal, Barrow Navigation)
KMPG Report on Canal Permit Pricing Strategy
Responding to the Consultation
Submissions were accepted until 5pm on the 26th February 2024. Submissions are now closed.
Queries regarding this public consultation can be directed to corporate@waterwaysireland.org.
Alternative Format
Documentation will be made available on request in formats such as Easy Read, Braille, audio formats, large print or minority languages to meet the needs of those for whom English is not their first language.
Request a copy of consultation documents by emailing corporate@waterwaysireland.org.