Yesterday, frustrated Dublin city resident Anne Dalton highlighted the appalling state of the historic Grand Canal.
Built in the 18th century to connect Dublin with the Shannon and the midlands, the canal is regarded worldwide as a significant example of engineering skills of the period.
For tourists and Dubliners alike the canal has for generations been a popular and scenic amenity. On the Dublintourism.com website the inner-city canal is described as a key tourist attraction.
“The towpath on either side of the canal has a rustic character, with terraces of small brick houses, wildfowl and swans on the water, and a series of curved 18th century bridges,” the website states.
But this could hardly be described as the case with regard to the canal between Harold’s Cross Bridge and Portobello Bridge. Here, appalling neglect has led to the creation of what looks like an open cesspit.
“What must any tourist visiting the city think? I’m not sure if this is some kind of algae growing up from the canal bed, but it’s really disgusting,” said Ms Dalton.
“I think locals do need to take some responsibility and not throw so much rubbish in it, but where is the taxpayers’ money going?”
The Green Party, in the heat of the recent general election, said: “The party believes that Dublin waterways are currently grossly underutilised.
“We will ensure that Dublin’s network of waterways realise their full potential. We will appoint a full complement of waterway wardens to monitor and maintain the canal network and also to provide proper cleaning services.”
Irish Examiner
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