A local TD is calling on Waterways Ireland to stop its new policy from going ahead as it is to effect businesses on the Shannon.
Sinn Fein TD Martin Kenny has hit out at Waterways Ireland over its implementation of a newly-imposed licenses scheme for individuals and businesses using waterways such as the River Shannon.
The Sligo/Leitrim TD also says he has been led to believe that people who wish to continue operating their business on the river must now apply for a license.
Before this, businesses had to only seek permission from Waterways Ireland under the Shannon Navigation bye laws of 1992.
Deputy Kenny believes this “new license agreement seems to be just a revenue-gathering exercise and now has a charge of €1,000.
He said Waterways Ireland had ‘gone overboard’ with the other conditions it has now added.
One of the conditions suggests that Waterway Ireland must be made aware of all personnel who work for any business using the water, and has the right to veto the appointment of any new employee.
Speaking to Ocean FM news, Deputy Kenny says this will only add to the declining number of individuals and business who can access any river:
