Waterways floated as transit solution

RIVERS and canals could have an important role to play in the country’s transport system, north and south.

Nowadays, waterways are mainly used by leisure craft, but canals and rivers have been extensively used in the past for the transport of merchandise. Remember the Guinness barges on the Liffey? With roads clogged by heavy trucks moving goods around the country, as well as the need to reduce carbon emissions, the waterways of old could come to life again.

Inland waterways hold great attractions for pleasure purposes. Chocolate box photographs of locks and bridges, with boats cruising on tranquil waters, create an idyllic, peaceful image of the countryside.