Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have given a commitment that when I receive the proposals from Waterways Ireland I will consult with Deputies on all sides of the House. It is very important as we are lucky to have 1,000 km of waterways in this country. They are a major resource from a tourism and recreational point of view. Most of these waterways go through the most rural parts of our country, so they bring opportunities to rural areas which are very challenged at this time. That is the reason their regulation is important. On the other hand, the charges for people, especially residents on the waterways, will have to be reasonable. When I receive the proposals I will discuss them with the people who are interfacing with the users on a regular basis, including the local Deputies, to discuss what is reasonable, after which I will determine the by-laws.

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