Waterways Ireland extends Public Consultation on Draft Byelaws

Waterways Ireland has extended a public consultation on proposed Byelaws changes, with a second phase of public consultation also added to facilitate further engagement with the public and stakeholders.

The initial consultation period (phase 1) has been extended to 27th October 2023, having originally been due to close on 2nd October 2023.

Following the initial consultation period, Waterways Ireland will review all submissions during November and December 2023. Waterways Ireland will endeavour to proactively and equitably deal with legitimate matters of concern raised during the initial public consultation process, publish its consultation document and re-issue amended draft Byelaws.

Phase 2 of the public consultation will then run from 15th January 2024 to 26th February 2024. This phase of the process will offer all stakeholders an opportunity to consider the modifications to the proposed revised Byelaws. Thereafter Waterways Ireland will consider all new feedback received, to best address the views of all stakeholders and ultimately, update Byelaws which are undisputedly, out-of-date, and unfit for purpose.

There will be no changes to the existing Byelaws, permits, or charges/fees until revised Byelaws are approved.

Waterways Ireland encourages everyone to read the draft Byelaws and to participate in the public consultation, and are keen to hear from anglers, boaters, cyclists, paddle-sport enthusiasts, runners, walkers, members of communities along the waterways and the public at large. 

The draft Byelaws can be found on waterwaysireland.org and in local libraries along the waterways corridors. Submissions to the public consultation can be made through the online survey on the website, by email to corporate@waterwaysireland.org and by post to Waterways Ireland Inspectorate, The Docks, Athlone.

The proposed changes relate to Shannon Navigation Byelaws (including the River Shannon, Shannon-Erne Waterway, River Finn, and Ulster Canal) and Canal Byelaws (including the Grand Canal, Royal Canal, & Barrow Navigation). 

Much has changed in the 30 years since the Byelaws were last updated. The proposed Byelaws reflect the substantial change in Waterways Ireland’s responsibilities to maintain safe shared public spaces on our waterways, Blueways and Greenways and to reimagine our waterways for the future.