At their AGM in 1984, the Kildare IWAI founders outlined their aims.  The list included improving facilities in Lowtown and Robertstown, opening the Milltown Feeder to navigation and assisting Dublin IWAI and the OPW with the restoration of the Naas Canal.  We continue their vision today, by campaigning for:

  • sufficient and clear water in Kildare canals
  • the re-opening of the Corbally Canal and
  • the restoring of the Sallins Drydock. 

One of our main aims, to oppose by appropriate action

  • the abandonment or neglect of Kildare canals
  • the pollution of our canals, the obstruction of canals by fixed bridges, aqueducts, overhead cables or otherwise
  • the obstruction of towing paths, or any other action calculated to injure or destroy the navigation or amenities of the canals in Kildare

Working with our IWAI canal neighbours, we are striving to safeguard the future of the Grand Canal, the Royal Canal and the Barrow Navigation through Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly and Westmeath, by

  • the introduction of fair Bye-laws for all users
  • encouraging rural and recreational activities, and businesses along the waterways
  • highlighting areas of neglect along the canals and promoting more on-going maintenance
  • actively engaging with communities during water events and when cruising in company
  • fostering interest in canals by distributing information to our members and the public
  • advancing navigation knowledge, by encouraging through education, the skill and practice of boating and all safety aspects of boating
  • safeguarding the natural environment by encouraging environmental protection and sustainability in and around boating
  • promoting the heritage aspects of canals and canal infrastructure, for the use and education of the general public
  • promoting safety on the waterways and advocating the interests of IWAI in all matters pertaining to the waterways

                     Royal Canal 2014 © J Cahill