Please see release below from the IWAI Nav-Watch group:
The Nav-Watch Group is delighted to introduce the Nav-Watch Report 2020, available for download at www.iwai.ie/nav-watch/.
Categorising the data gathered by boaters in 2019 and analysing that data, we examined and documented the many factors impeding the safe progress of a barge on the Canals and the Barrow, today. We also examined the reasons behind the reduction in maintenance of the canals in recent years.
The report highlights the potential for tourism along these historic waterways, especially in rural areas. There is a need for an on-going strategy in the first instance to bring back clear water in the navigations and then to keep them clear through regular maintenance, so boating tourists can travel them without being impeded by weed and silt.
To continue our work, we need your help in sharing this report and highlighting the potential of these navigations. If you have any feedback or suggestions please reach out to the group at nav-watch@iwai.ie