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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 31 Jan 1989

Vol. 386 No. 3

Written Answers. - Canal Towpaths.

46.

asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline the policy of his Department regarding the use of canal towpaths for horse riding; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that canal towpaths throughout the country have been used for generations for horse riding because of their safety as distinct from riding along main roads; the reason his Department is interfering with this privilege which people have hitherto had the freedom to enjoy; the policy which was recommended in the Brady Shipman Martin Report on management and development of the canals; and if he has satisfied himself with the policy recommended or if he will reject the policy regarding the use of the canal banks for horse riding.

The canal towpaths are an important part of the canal property and it is the policy of the Office of Public Works to protect them from potential sources of damage. Experience has shown that continued use of the towpaths by animals, including horses, does cause damage which could, in turn, affect the stability of the canal banks in certain areas. There is also the possibility of conflict with other users of the canal property, such as anglers and walkers. For these reasons, the Brady Shipman Martin report on management and development of the canals does not generally recommend the use of the towpaths for horse riding or pony trekking and I am in agreement with this.

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