Tony Gregory
Ceist:310 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands if a cycle way can be incorporated into the towpath along the Royal Canal as part of its ongoing redevelopment. [14927/01]
Written Answers. - Inland Waterways.
Waterways Ireland, a North-South Implementation Body for inland waterways, was established on 2 December 1999 on foot of the Agreement and was assigned the functions of management, maintenance, development and restoration of certain inland navigable waterways systems throughout the island, principally for recreational purposes.
Any proposals for cycle ways on canal property is a matter for consideration by Waterways Ireland, bearing in mind the limitations arising from the width of the towpaths and concern for all users of the resource. Safety is a major concern considering the obvious proximity of the towpaths to a large, open body of water. The Deputy may contact Waterways Ireland directly if he has any specific proposals in mind.