Waterways Ireland and Google Trekker showcase Royal Canal online

(Above) From left, Brian Mc Cabe, Tommy Conroy and Sam Hannon at Coolnahay on the Royal Canal.

Waterways Ireland, in partnership with the Google Trekker Loan Programme, has continued to capture the inland waterways of Ireland and make them accessible online.

In 2019 streetview imagery was captured along the Royal Canal, Grand Canal Barrow Line and Barrow Navigation to complement the Shannon imagery launched in 2018.

The data gathered represents a Waterways Ireland commitment to showcasing the diverse landscape and heritage of the inland navigable waterways as well as bringing attention to a myriad of different habitats, plants and animals that have been afforded protection ranging from National to European Wildlife designations.

It will be an invaluable tool in terms of promoting the waterways as a destination for recreation, tourism, mindfulness, education and heritage appreciation, encouraging visitors to the area.

It can also be utilised by waterway communities to highlight heritage assets and foster as sense of place.

The application to access the Google Trekker Loan Programme was made under the Waterways Ireland Heritage Plan 2016-2020 and the work was carried out by Waterways Ireland staff.

The footage will be a significant asset to Ireland’s Ancient East, being promoted by Fáilte Ireland in conjunction with Waterways Ireland and the local authorities.

A Google spokesperson said: “Google Maps gives people access to some incredible views across the globe. We hope the impressive images of these waterways, taken by the Trekker camera, will give people an incentive to visit and explore the area.”

Waterways Ireland acting chief executive John McDonagh, said: “Waterways Ireland dedicated staff and resources to this innovative project in partnership with Google and are delighted that this unique perspective of the Royal Canal, Grand Canal Barrow Line and Barrow Navigation will be available to the public across the world through Google Maps and Google Earth.”

(Photo) Cormac McCarthy, environment officer, and Niall Martin, RTÉ Nationwide, just outside Mullingar.