Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 244: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the date for the official opening of the Royal Canal from Dublin through to the River Shannon; if in this context it is the intention of Waterways Ireland to have at least seven people to act as patrol and supervising personnel along the stretch of canal from Killucan, County Westmeath through to the Shannon; if he will ensure that consideration is given to the many suitable candidates for such responsible positions who are available in counties Westmeath and Longford to take up such positions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19203/10]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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A date for the official opening of the Royal Canal is under discussion at present and will be announced in due course, following agreement with all the relevant parties.

In relation to the staffing matters raised, I understand that, in the first instance, Waterways Ireland is giving consideration to taking on up to 10 people on a temporary basis to assist in the initial commissioning of the waterway. The duties of such people would include assisting with the passage of boats through locks, as well as a range of other general duties.

Recruitment to Waterways Ireland is a matter for the Body itself, in compliance, of course, with relevant public sector requirements, and I have no direct role in such matters.