The consultation process on proposed by-law changes regarding canals and waterways has closed amid some objections from lobby groups.
Key objections include a new registration fee of €200, an increase in canal fees from €126 to €200, and the requirement for boat owners to have insurance for registration.
Waterways Ireland is in Phase Two of the consultation process for the proposed by-laws on the Shannon Navigation System, where boat users would face an annual expense of around €500 including the registration fee, insurance, and survey costs.
The Shannon Lakes and Rivers Group proposes a €100 Annual Lock Passage Pass as an alternative to the proposed €200 fee, citing concerns that the blanket fee could impact local Shannon users who sporadically use the waterways.
Waterways Ireland has defended the transparency of the consultation process, highlighting a 133-day consultation period in Phase One, public meetings, and numerous submissions.
Waterways Ireland plans to introduce the €200 registration fee, estimating revenue from the 5,000 boats on the Shannon to be around €1m, with the funds reinvested in facilities and infrastructure along the waterways.
