James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I understand the Heritage Bill 2016 is due before the Oireachtas imminently. The Bill, as currently constituted, includes a section on canals and waterways. All Members will agree canals are fantastic assets, as well as cultural, tourism and recreational facilities, but they require significant support and attention. Greenways have been rightly lauded all around the country for good reasons. However, the canals themselves, which run down the middle of the country, do not get the same support.

Last weekend, I met 23 canal boat owners on Naas canal harbour, all members of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland. It is their strong view that a dedicated canals Bill should be tabled rather than a section as currently constituted in the Heritage Bill. There is a draft canals Bill doing the rounds which runs to 21 sections. Could this be taken separately, broken away from the Heritage Bill?

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