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

I thank the Deputy for his amendment, but I will not be accepting it. Extending fees, tolls and charges to all canal users would not be practical. The amendment is an attempt to widen the remit to include towpath users and those walking or cycling along canals. The use of towpaths and their benefit are recognised and supported by local authorities which are working alongside Waterways Ireland to create off-road amenities. Trying to widen the remit of Waterways Ireland to include all users of canals would not be practical. I can see the Deputy's intention but-----