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Displaying items by tag: Irish Lights

The General Lighthouse Authorities (GLAs) of the United Kingdom and Ireland – Trinity House, Northern Lighthouse Board and Irish Lights have announced the requirement for an aviation service to support their vital safety service for mariners.

Known as the Tri-GLA Aviation Services Project (ASP), the contract to provide a dedicated aviation service is for a ten-year period from 1 December 2027, with the option to extend for up to a further two years.

An effective aviation service is a vital element of the GLAs’ service to the mariner. For many aids to navigation, due to their location and the nature of the work to be carried out, air travel is the only means of access. Not having an aviation service, even for a short period of time, has the potential to make a serious impact upon the critical statutory services delivered by the GLAs around the UK and Ireland.

Most flights involve carrying both passengers (GLA staff, subcontractors and approved third parties) and cargo to coastal and offshore lighthouses. This may require take off and landing from vessels at sea. Tasks will also include underslung loads that represent between 15% and 32% of the operational flying tasks per year, noting that such tasks will be separate from passenger transfers. Experience is therefore essential in Helicopter External Sling Load Operations (HESLO).

The GLAs are not seeking tenders at this time but will be carrying out Market Engagement to seek supplier views to help inform the procurement process. Any response to this Market Engagement by a supplier does not constitute a formal tender to the ASP procurement process, which the GLAs intend to commence in the Autumn of 2024.

Tri-GLA ASP Market Engagement Questionnaire*
Interested parties have the opportunity to complete a Market Engagement Questionnaire – see link below. The deadline for responding is by 21 March 2024.

Tri-GLA ASP Market Engagement Event – 5 April 2024 from 1000 to 1200 GMT
The GLAs invite interested parties to a virtual market engagement event where they will present an overview of the ASP Procurement and take questions. Details to follow.

Any questions on the procurement process should go through Delta eSourcing by clicking this link.

In addition click HERE and scroll down the page for 4 downloadable documents.

Published in Lighthouses

Irish Lights is recruiting a Navigation Support Officer to join the E-Navigation and Maritime Services (EMS) department. This position is based in our Head Office in Dun Laoghaire. 

The role involves providing support on the navigation to the department, including:

  • The preparation of Board and departmental reports,
  • Navigation assessments for Foreshore Licence, Aquaculture applications, Maritime Area Consent Applications and statutory sanctions
  • Supporting ship superintendence and survey requirements.

Applicants must hold a Level 8 Degree qualification, or equivalent maritime qualification and experience, STCW certification (Deck) and have a background in maritime and /or navigation.

The role will suit someone with maritime operations and project management experience who has a passion for our core mission of ensuring safety for all at sea.  The role is rewarding and challenging, requiring a flexible approach to work, including limited travel.

The starting point of the salary scale is €53,846, rising to €64,272.

Please view the Candidate Briefing Pack on Irish Lights website for full details of the position, the requirements and how to apply by 12 February 2024.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace.

Published in Jobs
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Irish Lights is recruiting a skilled systems/electronic technician to join our Coastal Operations Team as a Systems Performance Lead. The successful candidate will work closely with the team in the management of our software systems to improve workflow, monitoring, reporting, fault analysis and rectification of critical defects and outages in the Aids to Navigation (AtoN) Systems.

If you are interested in a secure role within an innovative and unique organisation, then this role is for you.

Duties of the role will include:

  • Being the Systems “Super User” for Coastal Operations
  • Managing the Monitoring System
  • Acting as the first point of contact in undertaking fault analysis of critical defects and outages
  • Triaging responses to outages on all AtoN Systems
  • Liaising with other team members to ensure the management of critical spare parts stock
  • Tracking and scheduling planned replacement of equipment
  • Supporting the development of Systems documentation and specifications

The candidate must be an experienced systems, radio radar or electronic technician with a relevant professional qualification. Experience in Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) would be an advantage.

The starting point of the salary scale is €44,235 rising to €52,215. The point you will be placed on is commensurate to experience. Benefits that make up the attractive reward package include; a very generous defined benefit pension scheme, paid sick leave scheme, an Employee Assistance Programme, generous family friendly policies, an Occupational Health Service, Bike for Work, Taxsaver commuter schemes, onsite parking and an onsite canteen. Irish Lights also provides significant training and career development opportunities.

Please view the Candidate Briefing Pack for full details of this position, the requirements and how to apply by 7 January 2024.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace.

Published in Jobs
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25th October 2023

Irish Lights are Hiring

Irish Lights are welcoming applications for the following roles:

Support Operative

Do you like a varied job where every day at work can be different? If yes, then join the team at Irish Lights as one of our Support Operatives in our Coastal Operations Department.

Based in Dun Laoghaire, as a Support Operative you will be responsible for the provision and maintenance of Irish Lights Aids to Navigation and other activities in the Buoy Yard.

Your duties would include:

  • Washing, grit blasting, painting and assembly of mechanical structures (buoys)
  • Undertaking basic welding of buoy bowls and daymarks
  • Undertaking basic electrical (12 volt dc) and mechanical assembly work
  • Operating mobile plant equipment e.g. fork lift, teleporter, crane
  • Undertaking Stores operations, such as, operating stores reach truck, issuing goods, stock checks
  • Driving a Van, as required, for both short and long distances
  • Assisting technicians with general operative work
  • Maintaining positive environmental standards and procedures
  • Adhering to risk, safety and environmental management

An attractive starting salary of €30,440 with a generous pension scheme will be available to the successful candidate. Please view the Candidate Briefing Pack for more information about the role and how to apply by 19 November 2023.

Able Seafarer (Deck) 3 vacancies

This is a unique opportunity for individuals, with a marine background, to work with the statutory body who maintain the aids to navigation, including offshore lighthouses and buoys, all around the Irish coast.
As an Able Seafarer your duties will include shipboard maintenance, mooring operations, watch keeping and operating deck machinery. You will also work with cranes, winches, workboats and helicopter operations.

You will need a valid STCW II/5 Able Seafarer Deck Certificate of Competency and supporting STCW certificates as follows:

  • Personal Safety and Social Responsibility Certificate.
  • Basic Fire Fighting Certificate.
  • Personal Survival Techniques Certificate
  • Elementary First Aid Certificate.
  • Navigation Watch Ratings Certificate. (Deck)
  • Certificate of Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats.
  • Security Awareness Certificate
  • Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate

Ideally, you will also have deckhand experience on specialised vessels such as Aids to Navigation or Offshore Anchor Handling.

When you join us, we will provide you with the additional training required to undertake this particular role, and you will be supported throughout your career to reach your full potential as a Mariner.

An attractive salary (€30,440 rising to €37,125, based on experience and service), time for time roster (4 weeks on/4 weeks off) and a generous pension scheme will be available to the successful candidates.

Please view the Candidate Briefing Pack for more information about the role and how to apply by 26 November 2023.

Applications with CV and cover letter to be submitted to.

Gemma Gregan, HR Advisor
E: [email protected]

Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace

Published in Jobs
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Irish Lights operates and maintains a diverse and technology driven aids to navigation infrastructure for the maritime sector around the island of Ireland including lighthouses, beacons, buoys and electronic aids to navigation.

Irish Lights is recruiting a skilled electrician to join our Operations Team as a Lighthouse Technician (LT). The successful candidate will be responsible to the Lighthouse Team Lead for their role in the provision of maintenance and management of Irish Lights’ assets and other activities. The LT will operate as part of multi-disciplinary teams deployed, as required, on a coast wide basis, to our Dun Laoghaire facility, or at third party locations.

If you are interested in a secure job within an innovative and unique organisation, then this role is for you.

Duties of the role will include:

  • Undertaking routine maintenance, fault find and resolve issues at lighthouse stations.
  • Reporting any defects or deficiencies with any asset using a computerised work management system.
  • Supporting the design phase of projects, as required, by providing feedback and specialist technical knowledge to the design team.
  • Working as part of multi-disciplinary team to undertake capital projects at Coastal Locations
  • Understanding Risk Assessments and following the required Control Measures for all coast work.
  • Partaking in pre-trip briefings and partake in or deliver toolbox talks on site
  • Keeping up to date on training, upskilling and personal development.

Due to the specialist skills required in this role, together with a knowledge of the Coast and the health and safety requirements, there will a detailed internal induction programme and extensive on-the-job learning and training provided by Irish Lights. In addition, formal training will also be provided, and this includes but is not limited to, Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) training, sea survival, working at heights and Helicopter Landing Officer training.

The candidate must be an experienced technician with a relevant electrical qualification and comfortable with a flexible approach to work, including working away from home.

The starting point of the salary scale is €€35,350, rising to €44,089. The point you will be placed on is commensurate with experience. Benefits that make up the attractive rewards package include; a very generous defined benefit pension scheme (27.9% employer contribution), paid sick leave scheme, an Employee Assistance Programme, generous family-friendly policies, an Occupational Health Service, bike for work, commuter taxsaver schemes, onsite parking and an onsite canteen.

Irish Lights also provides significant training and career development opportunities.

Please view the Candidate Briefing Pack for more information on this position and how to apply by midnight on 29 September 2023.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace.

Published in Jobs
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Irish Lights is recruiting for an experienced Technology and Information Security Officer (TISO).

Irish Lights operates and maintains a diverse and technology-driven aids to navigation infrastructure for the maritime sector around the island of Ireland, including lighthouses, beacons, buoys and electronic aids to navigation. 

Irish Lights continues to invest in and lead on the adoption of new technologies to deliver our core services.  Keeping our infrastructure, systems and data cyber secure is a key focus of this role.

The role is based in Dun Laoghaire and will include occasional travel to the coast or onboard our vessel, the Granuaile, and the successful candidate will report to the Business Solutions Manager.

If you are interested in a secure job within an innovative and unique organisation, then this role is for you.

Duties of the role will include:

  • Continuously improving solutions and systems, the supporting architecture, infrastructure and the related security environment ensuring security is a key enabler to deliver Irish Lights’ strategic objectives and business goals.
  • Determining security policy, having responsibility for compliance, audit and quality assurance ensuring defined standards are adhered to and overall responsibility for employee cyber security education and awareness training.
  • Validating change requirements based on advances in technology, proof of concepts, strategic goals and user requirements (internal/external) whilst considering the need to reduce organisation costs and deliver organisational efficiencies in a secure manner.

The candidate must hold an ICT qualification with at least five years of relevant experience.

The starting point of the salary scale is €53,050. The point you will be placed on is commensurate to experience. Benefits that make up the attractive rewards package include; a very generous defined benefit pension scheme (27.9% employer contribution), paid sick leave scheme, blended working, an Employee Assistance Programme, generous family-friendly policies, an Occupational Health Service, bike for work and commuter tax saver schemes, onsite parking and an onsite canteen.

Irish Lights also provides significant training and career development opportunities.

Please view the Candidate Briefing Pack for more information on this position and how to apply by midnight on 7 August 2023.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace.

Published in Jobs
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The Commissioners of Irish Lights (Irish Lights) and Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s seafood development agency, have collaborated to launch an online training course aimed at Local Lighthouse Authorities.

The course, delivered through BIM’s Learning Management System, consists of six modules and aims to enhance the safe and efficient operation of local aids to navigation services.

It covers topics such as the legal basis for providing marine aids to navigation, understanding the different types of aids to navigation, maintenance schedules and policies and procedures to cover outage reporting and availability requirements to international standards.

The training course is designed to empower and equip Local Lighthouse Authorities with the necessary knowledge to effectively manage local aids to navigation, ensuring the well-being of mariners and the protection of coastal environments.

Local Lighthouse Authorities are responsible for over 3,500 local aids to navigation around Ireland and Northern Ireland, which play a crucial role in ensuring maritime safety by assisting vessels in the identification of safe navigable waters and highlighting the locations of marine hazards for all marine users.

Published in BIM
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In delivering our services, Irish Lights relies on the capability of its dedicated buoy tender vessel, the ILV Granuaile. Now entering its third decade of service life, the current Granuaile has delivered excellent value for money and will continue to operate successfully in the short term. In parallel, Irish Lights has initiated a project, to plan and deliver a replacement vessel by 2029.

To support the effective project management and delivery of this project, Irish Lights is seeking to appoint a Senior Project Manager on a fixed-term contract for the Vessel Replacement Project.

Reporting to the Director of eNavigation and Maritime Services (Project Director), this senior role offers the opportunity to be at the heart of a large capital project, which is being delivered via the Public Sector Spending Code.

The role will be responsible for the day-to-day management, co-ordination and delivery of the Vessel Replacement Project within budget, timeline and scope. Under the general direction of the Project Director, duties of the role include:

  • Project Leadership
  • Defining, Developing and Embedded Project Management Standards
  • Planning and Monitoring
  • Reporting and Controls
  • RAID Management
  • Project Documentation
  • Quality Management

The successful candidate will have a background in capital project delivery, together with knowledge of relevant procurement processes. Previous maritime experience is desirable, although not essential.

The role will be both rewarding and challenging and will require a flexible approach to work, including some travel.

For more information on the role and requirements and how to apply, please view the Candidate Briefing Pack. The closing date for receipt of applications is 18 June 2023.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace.

Published in Jobs
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Irish Lights is currently recruiting for an executive assistant to the chief executive.

Based in Dun Laoghaire, the successful candidate will work closely with the chief executive to optimise the management of their schedule and ensure the office activities are planned to support their priorities and those of the organisation.

This is a highly demanding role and will require five days working in the office, with occasional out-of-hours work.

Applicants must have experience of working in an executive assistant or similar role. Advanced MS Office skills, IT and secretarial skills are essential.

This is a varied role, which requires excellent administrative skills, stakeholder management and a high level of verbal and written communication skills.

For further details on the role and Irish Lights, see the Candidate Briefing Pack which also gives information on the salary and benefits.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 June 2023. Apply by sending a CV and cover letter to Gemma Gregan at [email protected]. The Irish Lights Job Applicant Privacy Notice is available here.

The Commissioners of Irish Lights is an equal opportunities employer and promotes diversity in the workplace.

Published in Jobs
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The Irish Government has ratified the Convention on the International Organisation for Marine Aids to Navigation which will support safe and efficient navigation around our coasts. 

As shipping and offshore activity continues to grow, the new Convention will enable collaboration and development of consistent standards and practises at international level.

The Convention changes the status of the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities or IALA from a Non-Governmental Organisation to an Intergovernmental Organisation (IGO). The status of IGO will give further weight to the standards and recommendations of IALA, leading to greater compliance and navigational safety.

Marking the ratification of the IALA Convention, Minister of State Chambers said: “The transport of critical resources by sea enables the majority of our international trade. The last few years have illustrated Ireland’s reliance on marine supply chains with over 90% of goods by volume transported into our ports. New opportunities in offshore wind will bring huge benefits and must be planned and managed carefully in conjunction with fisheries, leisure and marine protected areas.

Yvonne Shields O’Connor, Irish Lights Chief Executive and Minister of State Jack Chambers TDYvonne Shields O’Connor, Irish Lights Chief Executive and Minister of State Jack Chambers TD

The offshore environment will be busier while physical and electronic aids to navigation will continue to support the protection of lives, trade, property and the environment around our coast. Ireland’s membership of IALA, along with the work of my Department at the International Maritime Organisation, will ensure that Ireland contributes proactively at international level to the safe and sustainable development of our shipping and maritime sector.”

Irish Lights Chief Executive, Yvonne Shields O’Connor said, “We welcome the Irish Government’s support for the ratification of the IALA convention. Increased digitalisation, connectivity, cyber security, expansion of offshore infrastructure, developments such as autonomous vessels and changes in trade patterns and climate are just some of the key issues being addressed at IALA.

As the organisation responsible for delivering essential navigation safety services around the coast of Ireland, Irish Lights understands the importance of global cooperation and coordination in harmonising marine navigation and related services. Ireland though Irish Lights has been a member of IALA since its establishment in 1957 and we look forward to continuing to play our part in this important work.”

Published in Lighthouses
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General Information on using Waterways Ireland inland navigations

Safety on the Water

All users of the navigations are strongly recommended to make themselves aware of safety on the water for whatever activity they are involved in and to read the advice offered by the various governing bodies and by:

The Dept. of Transport, Ireland: www.gov.ie/transport and The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, UK, The RNLI – Water Safety Ireland for information in terms of drowning prevention and water safety.

Registration of Vessels

All vessels using the Shannon Navigation, which includes the Shannon-Erne Waterways and the Erne System must be registered with Waterways Ireland. Only open undecked boats with an engine of 15 horsepower or less on the Shannon Navigation, and vessels of 10 horsepower or less on the Erne System, are exempt. Registration is free of charge.

Craft registration should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/craft-registration

Permits for use of the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation

All vessels using the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation must display appropriate valid Permit(s) i.e A Combined Mooring and Passage Permit (€126) and if not intending to move every five days, an Extended Mooring Permit (€152).

Permit applications should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/canal-permits

Passage on the Royal and Grand Canals – Dublin Area

For boat passage through the locks east of Lock 12 into / out of Dublin on either the Royal or Grand Canals, Masters are requested to contact the Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (M-F 9.30am-4.30pm) on tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or email [email protected] prior to making passage in order to plan the necessary lock-keeping assistance arrangements.

On the Grand Canal a minimum of two days notice prior to the planned passage should be given, masters should note that with the exception of pre-arranged events, a maximum of 2 boats per day will be taken through the locks, travelling either east or west.

Movements in or out of the city will be organised by prior arrangement to take place as a single movement in one day. Boaters will be facilitated to travel the system if their passage is considered to be safe by Waterways Ireland and they have the valid permit(s) for mooring and passage.

Newcomen Lifting Bridge

On the Royal Canal two weeks’ notice of bridge passage (Newcomen Lifting Bridge) is required for the pre-set lift date, and lock assistance will then also be arranged. A minimum of 2 boats is required for a bridge lift to go ahead.

Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (Tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or [email protected] ) is the point of contact for the bridge lift.

A maximum number of boats passing will be implemented to keep to the times given above for the planned lifts (16 for the Sat / Sun lifts & 8 for the weekday lifts). Priority will be given on a first come first served basis.

On day of lift, boaters and passengers must follow guidance from Waterways Ireland staff about sequence of passage under bridge & through Lock 1, and must remain within signed and designated areas.

Events Held on the Waterways

All organised events taking place on the waterways must have the prior approval of Waterways Ireland. This is a twelve week process and application forms must be accompanied with the appropriate insurance, signed indemnity and risk assessment. The application should be completed on the Waterways Ireland events page at :

https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/event-approval

Time Limits on Mooring in Public Harbours

On the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway craft may berth in public harbours for five consecutive days or a total of seven days in any one month.

On the Erne System, revised Bye Laws state that: No master or owner shall permit a vessel, boat or any floating or sunken object to remain moored at or in the vicinity of any public mooring, including mooring at any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location, for more than 3 consecutive days and shall not moor at that same mooring or any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location within the following 3 consecutive days without prior permission by an authorised official.

Winter Mooring on the Shannon Navigation and Shannon Erne Waterway

Winter mooring may be availed of by owners during the period 1 Nov to 31 Mar by prior arrangement and payment of a charge of €63.50 per craft. Craft not availing of Winter Mooring must continue to comply with the “5 Day Rule”. Winter Mooring applications should be completed online at : https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/winter-moorings-booking

Owners should be aware that electricity supply and water supply to public moorings is disconnected for the winter months. This is to protect against frost damage, to reduce running costs and to minimise maintenance requirements during the winter months.

Vessel owners are advised that advance purchasing of electricity on the power bollards leading up to the disconnection date should be minimal. Electricity credit existing on the bollards will not be recoverable after the winter decommissioning date. Both services will be reinstated prior to the commencement of the next boating season.

Smart Cards

Waterways Ireland smart cards are used to operate locks on the Shannon Erne Waterway, to access the service blocks, to use the pump-outs along the navigations, to avail of electrical power at Waterways Ireland jetties.

Berthing in Public Harbours

Masters are reminded of the following:

  • Equip their vessel with mooring lines of appropriate length and strength and only secure their craft to mooring bollards and cleats provided for this purpose.
  • Ensure the available berth is suitable to the length of your vessel, do not overhang the mooring especially on finger moorings on floating pontoon moorings.
  • Ensure mooring lines, electric cables and fresh water hoses do not create a trip hazard on public jetties for others users.
  • Carry sufficient fenders to prevent damage to your own vessel, other vessels and WI property.
  • Allow sufficient space between your vessel and the vessel ahead /astern (c.1m) for fire safety purposes and /or to recover somebody from the water.
  • Do not berth more than two vessels side by side and ensure there is safe access/egress at all times between vessels and onto the harbour itself.
  • Do not berth in such a way to prevent use of harbour safety ladders, slipways or pump-outs.
  • Do not allow the bow of your vessel to overhang the walkway of a floating mooring thus creating a hazard for others with an overhanging anchor or bow fendering.
  • Animals are not allowed to be loose or stray at any time.
  • Harbour and jetty infrastructure such as railings, power pedestals, fresh water taps, electric light poles, safety bollards, ladders etc are not designed for the purpose of mooring craft , they will not bear the strain of a vessel and will be damaged.
  • At Carrybridge on the Erne System, Masters of vessels are not permitted to use stern on mooring. Masters of vessels must use the mooring fingers for mooring of vessels and for embarkation / disembarkation from vessels.

Passenger Vessel Berths

Masters of vessels should not berth on passenger vessel berths where it is indicated that an arrival is imminent. Passenger vessels plying the navigations generally only occupy the berths to embark and disembark passengers and rarely remain on the berths for extended periods or overnight.

Lock Lead-in Jetties

Lead-in jetties adjacent to the upstream and downstream gates at lock chambers are solely for the purpose of craft waiting to use the lock and should not be used for long term berthing.

Vessel Wake

Vessel wake, that is, the wave generated by the passage of the boat through the water, can sometimes be large, powerful and destructive depending on the hull shape and engine power of the vessel. This wake can be detrimental to other users of the navigation when it strikes their craft or inundates the shoreline or riverbank. Masters are requested to frequently look behind and check the effect of their wake / wash particularly when passing moored vessels, on entering harbours and approaching jetties and to be aware of people pursuing other activities such as fishing on the riverbank.

Speed Restriction

A vessel or boat shall not be navigated on the Shannon Navigation at a speed in excess of 5 kph when within 200 metres of a bridge, quay, jetty or wharf, when in a harbour or canal or when passing within 100 metres of a moored vessel or boat.

Vessels navigating the Shannon-Erne Waterway should observe the general 5 kph speed limit which applies along the waterway. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to the banks caused by excessive wash from vessels.

Vessels navigating the Erne System should observe the statutory 5kt / 6mph / 10kph speed limit areas.

A craft on the Royal and Grand canals shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 6km per hour.

A craft on the Barrow Navigation shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 11km per hour except as necessary for safe navigation in conditions of fast flow.

Bank Erosion

Narrow sections of all the navigations are particularly prone to bank erosion due to the large wash generated by some craft. Masters are requested to be vigilant and to slow down to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage when they observe the wash of their craft inundating the river banks.

Unusual Waterborne Activity

Unusual waterborne vessels may be encountered from time to time, such as, hovercraft or amphibious aircraft / seaplanes. Masters of such craft are reminded to apply the normal “Rule of the Road” when they meet conventional craft on the water and to allow extra room to manoeuvre in the interest of safety.

Sailing Activity

Mariners will encounter large numbers of sailing dinghies from late June to August in the vicinity of Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Lower Lough Erne. Sailing courses are marked by yellow buoys to suit weather conditions on the day. Vessels should proceed at slow speed and with due caution and observe the rules of navigation when passing these fleets, as many of the participants are junior sailors under training.

Rowing

Mariners should expect to meet canoes and vessels under oars on any part of the navigations, but more so in the vicinity of Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon, Coleraine, Enniskillen and Limerick. Masters are reminded to proceed at slow speed and especially to reduce their wash to a minimum when passing these craft as they can be easily upset and swamped due to their very low freeboard and always be prepared to give way in any given traffic situation.

Canoeing

Canoeing is an adventure sport and participants are strongly recommended to seek the advice of the sport’s governing bodies i.e Canoeing Ireland and the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland, before venturing onto the navigations.

Persons in charge of canoes are reminded of the inherent danger to these craft associated with operating close to weirs, sluice gates, locks and other infrastructure particularly when rivers are in flood and large volumes of water are moving through the navigations due to general flood conditions or very heavy localised precipitation e.g. turbulent and broken water, stopper waves. Shooting weirs is prohibited without prior permission of Waterways Ireland.

Canoeists should check with lockkeepers prior entering a lock to ensure passage is done in a safe manner. Portage is required at all unmanned locks.

Canoe Trail Network – "Blueways"

Masters of powered craft are reminded that a canoe trail network is being developed across all navigations and to expect more organised canoeing along these trails necessitating slow speed and minimum wash when encountering canoeists, rowing boats etc

Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals – Lough Key

It is expected that work on Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals on Lough Key will be completed in 2021. Access to these canals will be for non-powered craft only, eg canoes, kayaks, rowing boats.

Fast Powerboats and Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis)

Masters of Fast Powerboats (speed greater than 17kts) and Personal Watercraft (i.e.Jet Skis) are reminded of the inherent dangers associated with high speed on the water and especially in the confines of small bays and narrow sections of the navigations. Keeping a proper look-out, making early alterations to course and /or reducing speed will avoid conflict with slower vessels using the navigation. Personal Watercraft are not permitted to be used on the canals.

Towing Waterskiers, Wakeboarders, Doughnuts etc

Masters of vessels engaged in any of these activities are reminded of the manoeuvring constraints imposed upon their vessel by the tow and of the added responsibilities that they have to the person(s) being towed. These activities should be conducted in areas which are clear of conflicting traffic. It is highly recommended that a person additional to the master be carried to act as a “look-out” to keep the tow under observation at all times.

Prohibition on Swimming

Swimming in the navigable channel, particularly at bridges, is dangerous and is prohibited due to the risk of being run over by a vessel underway in the navigation.

Age Restrictions on operating of powered craft

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the minimum age for operating of powered craft. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a personal watercraft or a fast power craft shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years does not operate or control the craft

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft powered by an engine with a rating of more than 5 horse power or 3.7 kilowatts shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 12 years does not operate or control the craft.

Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Lifejackets and PFD’s are the single most important items of personal protective equipment to be used on a vessel and should be worn especially when the vessel is being manoeuvred such as entering / departing a lock, anchoring, coming alongside or departing a jetty or quayside.

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the wearing of Personal Flotation Devices. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall ensure, that there are, at all times on board the craft, sufficient suitable personal flotation devices for each person on board.

- A person on a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) of less than 7 metres length overall shall wear a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of decked craft, other than when the craft is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years complies with paragraph above.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft), shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years wears a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of a decked craft other than when it is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person wears a suitable personal flotation device, at all times while – (a) being towed by the craft, (b) on board a vessel or object of any kind which is being towed by the craft.

Further information is available at: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2005/si/921/made/en/print

Firing Range Danger Area – Lough Ree

The attention of mariners is drawn to the Irish Defence Forces Firing Range situated in the vicinity of buoys No’s 2 and 3, on Lough Ree on the Shannon Navigation. This range is used regularly for live firing exercises, throughout the year, all boats and vessels should stay clear of the area marked with yellow buoys showing a yellow "X" topmark and displaying the word "Danger".

Shannon Navigation, Portumna Swing Bridge Tolls

No attempt should be made by Masters’ of vessels to pay the bridge toll while making way through the bridge opening. Payment will only be taken by the Collector from Masters when they are secured alongside the jetties north and south of the bridge.

Navigating from Killaloe to Limerick on the Shannon Navigation

The navigation from Killaloe to Limerick involves passage through Ardnacrusha locks, the associated headrace and tailrace and the Abbey River into Limerick City. Careful passage planning is required to undertake this voyage. Considerations include: lock passage at Ardnacrusha, water flow in the navigation, airdraft under bridges on Abbey River in Limerick, state of tide in Limerick

Users are advised to contact the ESB Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station (00353 (0)87 9970131) 48 hours in advance of commencing their journey to book passage through the locks at Ardnacrusha. It is NOT advised to undertake a voyage if more than one turbine is operating (20MW), due to the increased velocity of flow in the navigation channel, which can be dangerous. To ascertain automatically in real time how many turbines are running, users can phone +353 (0)87 6477229.

For safety reasons the ESB has advised that only powered craft with a capacity in excess of 5 knots are allowed to enter Ardnacrusha Headrace and Tailrace Canals.

Passage through Sarsfield Lock should be booked on +353-87-7972998, on the day prior to travel and it should be noted also that transit is not possible two hours either side of low water.

A Hydrographic survey in 2020 of the navigation channel revealed that the approach from Shannon Bridge to Sarsfield Lock and the Dock area has silted up. Masters of vessels and water users are advised to navigate to the Lock from Shannon bridge on a rising tide one or two hours before High Tide.

Lower Bann Navigation

The attention of all users is drawn to the “Users Code for the Lower Bann”, in particular to that section covering “Flow in the River” outlining the dangers for users both on the banks and in the navigation, associated with high flow rates when the river is in spate. Canoeists should consult and carry a copy of the “Lower Bann Canoe Trail” guide issued by the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland. Users should also contact the DfI Rivers Coleraine, who is responsible for regulating the flow rates on the river, for advisory information on the flow rates to be expected on any given day.

DfI Rivers Coleraine. Tel: 0044 28 7034 2357 Email: [email protected]

Lower Bann Navigation – Newferry – No wake zone

A No Wake Zone exists on the Lower Bann Navigation at Newferry. Masters of vessels are requested to proceed at a slow speed and create no wake while passing the jetties and slipways at Newferry.

Overhead Power Lines (OHPL) and Air draft

All Masters must be aware of the dangers associated with overhead power lines, in particular sailing vessels and workboats with cranes or large air drafts. Voyage planning is a necessity in order to identify the location of overhead lines crossing the navigation.

Overhead power line heights on the River Shannon are maintained at 12.6metres (40 feet) from Normal Summer level for that section of navigation, masters of vessels with a large air draft should proceed with caution and make additional allowances when water levels are high.

If a vessel or its equipment comes into contact with an OHPL the operator should NOT attempt to move the vessel or equipment. The conductor may still be alive or re-energise automatically. Maintain a safe distance and prevent third parties from approaching due to risk of arcing. Contact the emergency services for assistance.

Anglers are also reminded that a minimum ground distance of 30 metres should be maintained from overhead power lines when using a rod and line.

Submarine Cables and Pipes

Masters of vessels are reminded not to anchor their vessels in the vicinity of submarine cables or pipes in case they foul their anchor or damage the cables or pipes. Look to the river banks for signage indicating their presence.

Water Levels - Precautions

Low Water Levels:

When water levels fall below normal summer levels masters should be aware of:

Navigation

To reduce the risk of grounding masters should navigate on or near the centreline of the channel, avoid short cutting in dog-legged channels and navigating too close to navigation markers.

Proceeding at a slow speed will also reduce “squat” effect i.e. where the vessel tends to sit lower in the water as a consequence of higher speed.

Slipways

Reduced slipway length available under the water surface and the possibility of launching trailers dropping off the end of the concrete apron.

More slipway surface susceptible to weed growth requiring care while engaged in launching boats, from slipping and sliding on the slope. Note also that launching vehicles may not be able to get sufficient traction on the slipway once the craft is launched to get up the incline.

Bank Erosion

Very dry riverbanks are more susceptible to erosion from vessel wash.

Lock Share

Maximising on the number of vessels in a lock will ensure that the total volume of water moving downstream is decreased. Lock cycles should be used for vessels travelling each way.

High Water Levels:

When water levels rise above normal summer level masters should be aware of:

Navigation

Navigation marks will have reduced height above the water level or may disappear underwater altogether making the navigable channel difficult to discern.

In narrow sections of the navigations water levels will tend to rise more quickly than in main streams and air draft at bridges will likewise be reduced.

There will also be increased flow rates particularly in the vicinity of navigation infrastructure such as bridges, weirs, locks etc where extra care in manoeuvring vessels will be required.

Harbours and Jetties

Due care is required in harbours and at slipways when levels are at or near the same level as the harbour walkways' as the edge will be difficult to discern especially in reduced light conditions. It is advised that Personal Flotation Devices be worn if tending to craft in a harbour in these conditions.

Slipways

Slipways should only be used for the purpose of launching and recovering of water craft or other objects from the water. Before using a slipway it should be examined to ensure that the surface has sufficient traction/grip for the intended purpose such as launching a craft from a trailer using a vehicle, that there is sufficient depth of water on the slipway to float the craft off the trailer before the concrete apron ends and that the wheels of the trailer do not drop off the edge of the slipway. That life-saving appliances are available in the vicinity, that the vehicle is roadworthy and capable of coping with the weight of the trailer and boat on the incline. It is recommended that slipway operations are conducted by two persons.

Caution to be Used in Reliance upon Aids to Navigation

The aids to navigation depicted on the navigation guides comprise a system of fixed and floating aids to navigation. Prudent mariners will not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid to navigation. With respect to buoys, the buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and the ground tackle which secures it to the lake or river bed. The approximate position is used because of the practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, prevailing atmospheric and lake/river conditions, the slope of and the material making up the lake/river bed, the fact that the buoys are moored to varying lengths of chain, and the fact that the buoy body and/or ground tackle positions are not under continuous surveillance. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charted symbol.

Buoys and perches are also moved out of position or pulled over by those mariners who use them to moor up to instead of anchoring. To this end, mariners should always monitor their passage by relating buoy/perch positions with the published navigation guide. Furthermore, a vessel attempting to pass close by always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction that the buoy or beacon/perch marks.

Masters of Vessels are requested to use the most up to date Navigation guides when navigating on the Inland Waterways.

Information taken from Special Marine Notice No 1 of 2023