Vol. 466 No. 4
132 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the total amount of funding available for the development and improvement of the canals in the Dublin City Council area; his views of the potential of these canals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11619/96]
My Department has made available funds in the order of £0.9 million for maintenance and improvement works to the Royal and Grand Canals in the Dublin City Council area this year.
I believe that the canals have considerable potential for further development in respect of cruising, fishing, wildlife appreciation, walking and industrial archaeology. They are a unique feature of Dublin and have the potential to boost the tourist industry with consequent spinoff in terms of job creation.
My Department has published corridor studies in respect of both canals in the Dublin area which point the way forward in terms of development. The recommendations of these studies are being actively pursued by my Department. I am satisfied that with co-operation between my Department, the local authorities, the private sector, the local communities along the corridors, and the general public, both canals will be able to achieve their considerable potential.
