Ross Castle canal silt removal

Fianna Fáil TD for Kerry, Michael Cahill TD, has welcomed confirmation from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage that the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will return to Ross Castle Canal to address the remaining silt once conditions allow.

Deputy Cahill raised the matter directly with the Minister following concerns from local boatmen regarding the significant amount of silt that had been left banked along the edge of the canal after maintenance works. They warned that, if left in place, the silt could simply be washed back into the canal during periods of heavy rainfall undoing the benefits of the recent clearance works.

In response to Deputy Cahill’s Parliamentary Question, the Minister confirmed that the NPWS had already cleared an entrance and exit route at the site when suitable weather and ground conditions allowed the work to proceed. Importantly, the Minister also confirmed that the NPWS will revisit the issue once lake levels reduce and conditions are suitable to facilitate safe access.

He said:

“I raised this issue after being contacted by local boatmen who were concerned that the silt left on the banks of the canal would inevitably be washed back into the watercourse following heavy rainfall. They made the valid point that the material had now been left long enough for aquatic wildlife to return, meaning its removal could proceed without causing unnecessary environmental disturbance.”

“I am pleased to receive confirmation that the NPWS intends to return to the site to complete the work when lake levels fall and conditions are suitable. This is a practical and sensible commitment which recognises both the environmental importance of the area and the need to maintain navigable access.”

Deputy Cahill said Ross Castle Canal is an important amenity and tourism asset within Killarney National Park and that it is essential it is properly maintained for the benefit of visitors, local businesses and the traditional boatmen who use it throughout the year.

“I will continue to engage with the NPWS to ensure these works are completed at the earliest suitable opportunity. Maintaining the canal is important not only for navigation but also for preserving one of Kerry’s most iconic tourism attractions and ensuring it remains accessible for everyone who enjoys Killarney National Park,” Deputy Cahill concluded.