Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The entire remit of Waterways Ireland is to keep the waterways open for all users to enjoy. That is its prime purpose. I am not sure how many ways the Deputy wants me to say this. I have outlined my views on the amendment.

The amendment restricts the ability of Waterways Ireland to provide infrastructure such as moorings and weirs along the canals. The Deputy has mentioned section 5. The provisions of section 5 are to provide a general duty and responsibility of Waterways Ireland. Section 5(1)(a) states: "it is the duty of Waterways Ireland to undertake the care, management and maintenance of the canals and other canal property as a public amenity for use by the public for" navigation, fishing and other recreational use. In that context, the amendment is simply impractical. Moreover, let us not forget the flooding reasons.