Waterways Ireland’s chief executive, John McDonagh, recently stated that the organisation will install more fencing along the Grand Canal in Dublin if required. McDonagh explained to the Dáil Committee of Public Accounts that the decision to put up barriers was made for “public health” and to secure their property. He mentioned that Waterways Ireland took this action independently without being directed by any other entity. The fencing has already been extended up to 2km, with a potential for further extension in case the need arises.
Options considered for the Grand Canal banks include removing the fencing for free access, introducing 24-hour patrolling, keeping the fencing until the situation improves, or removing the fencing gradually during a landscaping and biodiversity program. Waterways Ireland revealed that they have removed over 330 tents in the area in the last five weeks due to safety concerns.
Despite the practicality of the fencing solution, some critics like Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik have accused the government of neglecting the housing crisis, leading to the current situation along the Grand Canal. The debate over the barriers’ presence is ongoing, with Waterways Ireland possibly maintaining them until October.