The aim of the Nav-Watch Group is:
To achieve unobstructed water in the navigation to a standard required by all boaters and wildlife
- by gathering first-hand condition information from boaters and other users, who live, work and play on the Barrow, Grand and Royal navigations
- by sharing this information with the navigation authority, Waterways Ireland (WI), with the intention of assisting WI in planning their resources and their maintenance work
- by categorising the information gathered and pinpointing where work is needed, so WI assign the right resources to carry out the type of work required
In addition, the Nav-Watch Group aim to:
- lobby for increased maintenance funding for WI from the Dublin government, for the Eastern inland waterways, so they can employ enough people to carry out regular maintenance of the navigation, especially during the summer months
- work with central and local tourism agencies in marketing and highlighting the potential of slow tourism along these waterways, especially in rural areas in Fáilte Ireland’s designated Ancient East and Hidden Heartlands.
- collaborate with WI, IWAI and local councils in towns and villages, to promote the potential of the waterways in their area and to plan events on and along the waterways
- collaborate with IWAI members and other recreational groups, such as walkers, cyclists and campers in supporting events in the harbours, towns and villages along the Grand Canal, Royal Canal and River Barrow.