Vol. 488 No. 1
226 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the steps, if any, in place to develop the Grand Canal from the sixth lock bridge at Kylemore Road to Harold's Cross bridge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5435/98]
It is expected that dredging works will be carried out shortly between the 3rd and 9th locks and that a cleanup along the circular line will also be undertaken. Tenders have recently been invited for a major tree planting programme in the area, while litter collection, grass cutting and weed control maintenance works will continue to be carried out.
Further fish stocking of the system was undertaken recently with a view to developing the canal as a major coarse angling centre. It is proposed to hold a fishing tutorial as part of a canal festival in the area next summer with the co-operation of angling clubs and local community groups.
The Deputy will also be interested to know that the 4th and 5th lock gates are currently being replaced as part of the on-going lockgate replacement programme for the canal. In addition, canal towpaths have been resurfaced between the 3rd and 5th locks.
