Development of the Ulster Canal and a new marina in Co Monaghan. These are all part of a 10 year plan launched by Waterways Ireland today. €200 million is being pumped into the plan to revive historic canals, greenways and blueways across the country. One of the largest engineering feats ever undertaken by the organisation is the development of the Ulster Canal - a 14km distance that will see the creation of a new canal that will result in a new marina within Clones. The project, which is currently in phase two and expected to reach completion in 2028, will receive €120 million in capital funding and create 100 indirect jobs as part of the project. Speaking to Northern Sound, Sinn Fein's Pat Treanor described the commitment as "fantastic news."
When asked about the creation of new jobs for the area, Cllr Treanor said; "I've also always been of the opinion that it would be difficult to get a large factory or a large job creation enterprise in this part of the country. We're a wee bit off the main track of the national primary routes, so the next best thing is to development the whole tourism industry and with the opening of the canal I think that will happen. At the moment, there must be 100 people or over working at the construction phase of the canal so it's also giving great investment to the local economy here as things go on."
In a statement issued to Northern Sound, Waterways Ireland said that sustainability is a "central element" of this ten year plan, ensuring the future viability of these amenities for local communities and recreational users for years to come, while preserving the local natural habitats for wildlife, flora and fauna. The 10 year plan provides a directional pathway that looks to enhance and upgrade these amenities for the public good in a manner that is harmonious with the surrounding environments, supports the ecological integrity, while promoting biodiversity and eco-friendly practices."
