Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Some of the matters raised by the Senator regarding the River Barrow are subject to the planning process and a matter for the planning authorities. The matter will, therefore, have to take its course.

Many Members indicated to me that they found the briefing provided by Waterways Ireland very worthwhile and had learned a great deal from it. I ask Senators to raise any concerns they may have with me and my officials and we will address them. I was able to arrange a briefing for them, for example, when they sought one.

This is enabling legislation to allow the making of by-laws. Some of the issues causing concern can be included in the by-laws, which is the appropriate forum for addressing them.

Waterways Ireland does a great deal of collaborative work with local authorities. I visited Moate, County Westmeath, this morning to launch the town and village enhancement programme, under which €20 million will be provided for investment in towns and villages in the next 15 months. Speaking to members of the local authority, they complimented Waterways Ireland on the way it had worked with them in developing blueways and greenways along the route of the Royal Canal. This was an unsolicited compliment as I had not mentioned Waterways Ireland. From my experience of working with Monaghan County Council, which works with Waterways Ireland on collaborative projects along the route of the Ulster Canal, the agency is frequently complimented on the collaborative approach it takes to delivering projects along the canal route for the benefit of the wider public. These projects are good for attracting tourists to areas that do not normally receive many visitors. Waterways Ireland has a good record and it is appropriate that I defend the organisation. I often hear it complimented on the good work it does.