Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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236. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which she proposes to take into account the views expressed by traditional canal dwellers and canal users following submissions made on foot of draft by-laws which purported to dramatically increase the cost of mooring, boating and canal dwelling in view of the fact that canal users are quite prepared to make a reasonable contribution but not to the extent proposed and having particular regard to the fact that the Royal Canal in particular was restored mainly through local voluntary effort; if she will meet canal users to discuss the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40647/14]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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238. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which she has met or proposes to meet canal users with a view to resolving issues that have arisen following publication of draft by-laws by Waterways Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40649/14]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 236 and 238 together.

The proposed new by-laws are intended to enhance the ability of Waterways Ireland to manage the Royal and Grand Canals and the Barrow Navigation for the benefit of all canal users. Investment by Waterways Ireland in these waterways has made them more attractive for boat owners and is helping to develop them as a vibrant recreational and tourist amenity for all waterway users. Given that background, it is now necessary to update the bye-laws to ensure that the rules governing use of the waterways are fit for purpose and best meet the needs of all waterway users.

I am aware that concerns have been raised regarding aspects of the proposed byelaws. Waterways Ireland undertook a public consultation process in relation to the proposed bye-laws referred to earlier this year. I am advised that the main stakeholders, including the Inland Waterway Association of Ireland, the Heritage Boat Association, the Royal Canal Amenity Group and the Irish Boat Rental Association, were contacted individually and invited to meet with the Chief Executive and the senior management team of Waterways Ireland prior to submitting their views. The current permit holders on the three waterways, including traditional canal users and canal dwellers, received individual written notice and were given the opportunity to make their views and requirements known.

I understand that over 2,000 submissions were made in the course of the public consultation process. Waterways Ireland has concluded its analysis of the public consultation and a summary of the consultation process and of the submissions received is available on the Waterways Ireland website at .Waterways Ireland has submitted a revised set of draft by-laws to my Department, which is currently being reviewed. When that process is completed, the matter will be referred to me, as Minister, with recommendations for consideration and final decision. In line with a commitment given during a debate in Seanad Éireann on Wednesday 26 February 2014, I will afford interested Deputies and Senators an opportunity to discuss the proposals with me prior to making a final decision on the draft by-laws.