Inland Waterways Development

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 December 2017

Wednesday, 6 December 2017

Ceisteanna (268)

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

268. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the steps she will take to complete restoration of the Royal Canal from Dublin to Clondra in view of the fact that the only part of same which has not been completed to date is the spur link of the canal into Longford town; if it will be completed; if adequate resources will be allocated to achieve this objective in 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52212/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

Waterways Ireland published a feasibility study regarding restoration of the Longford Branch of the Royal Canal on its website in October 2014.

The recommendation of that  feasibility study was that given the financial climate and because of the associated costs, environmental issues and uncertainty regarding planning approval, the project would not be pursued any further at that time.  This position remains unchanged.

The Deputy may wish to note that in 2014 Waterways Ireland in partnership with Longford County Council developed the towpath to provide a shared walkway/cycleway along the route of the Longford Branch.