SDLP Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee members Dominic Bradley MLA and Karen McKevitt MLA have given their support to the Newry/Portadown branch of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland in their attempt to have the Newry Canal included under the remit of Waterways Ireland.

Speaking after a meeting of the Assembly's Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee, Newry and Armagh MLA Dominic Bradley said: "Peter Maxwell and Geraldine Foley from the Inland Waterways Association made a very persuasive presentation to the Committee for the inclusion of Newry Canal under the remit of Waterways Ireland.

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"The four councils which own the Canal are in favour of this proposal and he SDLP believes that it makes sense for the Canal to be included under the remit of this cross-border body as it opens up greater opportunities for it to be developed. We will ensure that the Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee make representations to the Minister to that end.

South Down MLA Karen McKevitt added: "The Committee was very impressed by the voluntary efforts of the Association who regularly improve the canal course and bankways.

"The Newry Canal is a great asset to our area from the point of view of leisure, recreation and it has the potential to be a major tourism magnet. Although investment may not be available in the immediate future, it is strategically important that we should work to have the canal included under the remit of Waterways Ireland.

“Id like to thank members of Inland Waterways Association of Ireland, in particular Peter Maxwell and Geraldine Foley for the presentation they made to the Committee and for the very worthwhile work which they are doing on the canal."

(CD/GK)