Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 May 1996

Vol. 465 No. 1

Written Answers. - Inland Waterways Development.

Brendan Smith

Question:

100 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the plans, if any, he has for the development of inland waterways; the projects which will be undertaken in 1996; the level of expenditure involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9339/96]

Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (Mr. M. Higgins)

A total expenditure of £22.65 million is proposed on the development and improvement of inland waterways during the period 1994-1999.

Expenditure in 1996 is expected to be £4.983 million.

The projects which will be funded in 1996 from this provision are:—

(a) The continued restoration of the Royal Canal.

(b) Continued improvements to the Grand Canal and Barrow Navigation including landscaping and improvement of moorings,

(c) Works to extend the Shannon Navigation along the River Suck to Ballinasloe.

(d) Works to extend the Shannon Navigation nearer to Boyle.

(e) Provision to moorings in the Claddagh Basin and improvements to the Eglinton Canal.

(f) Works to restore the Tralee Ship Canal.

(g) Commencement of design for new moorings at Lanesboro/ Ballyleague.

(h) Completion of work to mooring facilities in Belturbet.

(i) Commencement of Environmental Impact Assessment of proposed extension of Shannon Navigation to Lough Oughter.

(j) Commissioning of a report on the proposed restoration of the Boyne Navigation.

(k) Commencement of works to improve the Shannon Navigation in Limerick.

(l) Improvement of angling facilities on canals.

Works which will be commenced later in the programme are:—

1. Construction of mooring facilities at Grange.

2. Extension of the quay at Shannonbridge.

3. Provision of waterways visitor facility in Galway.