Kildare Man Says He's Homeless Following Removal Of His Hand-Built Structure From Lowtown Canal.

Waterways Ireland says "Construction of a vessel on the navigation is not permitted due to the risk of pollution."

A Kildare man contends he is now homeless, after Waterways Ireland's seizure of the property he had constructed in which to live.

Anthony Hall built the structure,a cabin on barrels, and placed it on the canal at Lowtown.

He says that, following a visit by Waterways Ireland in mid-May, he believed his residence there was in order.

Mr. Hall alleges Waterways Ireland staff complimented him on his work, and reminded him of mooring fees due to be paid and noted that there was no "rush" to install engines.

On May 21st, Waterways Ireland, under the Canals Act, notified him that he had 10 days in which to move the structure from the water.

Waterways Ireland says by-laws dictate that, among other elements, a boat or vessel is defined as having "working engines enabling them to move along the navigation".

Vessels must also be of " Appropriate dimensions and hull design to ensure they can navigate safely through our many bridges and lock chambers."

One June 2nd, Waterways Ireland removed the vessel, returned Mr Hall's mooring fee, which was paid after May 21st, and told him that they would store the structure for a month, before dismantling it.

Independent.ie says "The letter said Waterways Ireland incurred costs of €4,895 and is looking for €2,447 from him by July 5."

Anthony Hall joined Eoin Beatty on Wednesday's edition of Kildare Today:

Waterways Ireland has issued this statement to Kfm Radio:

“The Grand Canal is a historic and public amenity to be enjoyed by everyone. In the past year there has been an upsurge in people using the towpath and waterway for recreation.  With this has come a heightened awareness and appreciation of this unique environment.   

Waterways Ireland, as the custodian for these historic waterways, manages and protects this sensitive environment through the Canals Act 1986 and the bye-laws to ensure it remains a publicly accessible and safe space for all. There has been a significant investment of public funds in the reimagination of our waterways through the development of Blueways, Greenways and additional mooring capacity to enable the public to enjoy this spectacular outdoor recreational amenity.

The bye-laws clearly lay out how a boat or vessel is defined, including the health, safety and environmental measures that are in place to protect the public, the waterways and the environment.

This includes requirements on:

-          Foul discharges from sinks, toilets and bilges.

-          Holding tanks to secure all foul water.

-          Working engines enabling them to move along the navigation.

-          Appropriate dimensions and hull design to ensure they can navigate safely through our many bridges and lock chambers.

In order to secure a permit boats must meet the criteria and hold insurance in advance of launching on to the navigation.

Construction of a vessel on the navigation is not permitted due to the risk of pollution.

Waterways Ireland carries out regular visits to the navigation to ensure boats comply with our bye-laws. We work with owners to ensure they understand their responsibilities. Removing boats is a measure of last resort when non-compliance has been established. In every case a process of engagement and formal notification is followed by 10 days notice as laid down in the bye-laws.

Waterways Ireland has a duty of care to the public at large and a responsibility to protect the environment of the Grand Canal now and for future generations.”