IRBOA Template:

Copy and paste the below to use to send to your local representatives, you can add and remove any points you like!

Your Name-Type Name here
Email Address-Important to give some contact information
00/00/000-Fill in the date
Your Address-This is optional
City, Postal Code-This is optional
Phone Number-This is optional

Dear-Insert Name of TD or County Councilor here

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you over my deep concerns on Waterways Ireland’s proposed draft Bye-Laws of the Grand & Royal Canal and Barrow Navigation. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read this email and the concerns that I have.

Provide some information about yourself, does not have to be too much, maybe where you live and if you are one of their constituents. Personal stories make your email more memorable.

My primary objection is rooted in the fact that these draft Bye-Laws appear to unjustly target and victimize the traditional boat dwellers who have, for years, played an integral role in keeping our canal navigation routes open through their constant usage while residing on the water. They threaten people’s homes, their livelihoods and these vibrant communities in Ireland. Below are some of the main points that I have major concerns with:

You can use all the points listed below or remove anyones that you don’t want:

  • New Houseboat permit fees, the cost of which far outweigh the services provided and threaten to push members of these communities into homelessness. The permit fees suggested by Waterways Ireland are increasing up to 2000%, depending on the area.
  • The introduction of a €150 euro fine with no recourse to appeal but at the District Court. An Authorised Officer from Waterways Ireland can give out these fines and has the authority to fine not only those on a boat, but all canal users.
    • The right to a private dwelling is a cornerstone of our democracy and is enshrined in Article 40.5 of the Irish Constitution. These Bye-Laws have the potential to erode these and the right to privacy.
    • Traditional Boat Dwellers presence on the canals has meant they remain navigable, benefiting the wider community of canal users, including recreational boaters, tourists, and businesses that rely on the canals. Often the first to report low water levels, broken services or faulty lock gates.
    • Waterways Ireland have not published their accounts since 2020. They are asking for the public to pay massive fee increases for Houseboat permits yet they have not been forthcoming in their own accounts.

    I kindly request that you review these Draft Bye-Laws and work towards a more equal and balanced approach that considers the constitutional rights of citizens and ensures the canals remain accessible to all.

    Thank you for taking the time to consider my concerns. I look forward to hearing from you and hope that a more reasonable and fair solution can be found regarding these byelaws.

    Yours Sincerely,
    Insert your Name