Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

308. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the status of her plans for a Grand Canal greenway between Hazelhatch, County Kildare, and Grange Castle, Dublin 22, (details supplied) in view of the fact that there is reference to the project as an objective in a number of local area plans; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7617/18]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Waterways Ireland is responsible for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of 1,000 km of the inland navigable waterway system throughout the island, principally for recreational purposes.  This is a significant recreational resource and Waterways Ireland has been proactive in the development of Blueways and Greenways as a means to attract new visitors and in response to the growth for recreational activities such as walking, canoeing and cycling.

Waterways Ireland is committed to supporting the development of the entire Grand Canal tow path into a high quality off road walking and cycling amenity.

I am informed that there have been initial discussions between Waterways Ireland and  South Dublin County Council regarding the extension of the Greenway between the 12th Lock, Castleknock and Hazelhatch, a distance of 4.6km.

I am also informed that this proposed project would be led by South Dublin County and Waterways Ireland will assist its delivery in any way possible and it is actively working with  local authorities and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport to ensure that all of the canal towpaths are developed.