2010 Report - Waterways Ireland

Waterway Users Research2010December 2010

1Contents1. Executive Summary ............................................................................... 12. Background and Objectives .................................................................. 53. Research Methodology .......................................................................... 73.1 Interviews Achieved .................................................................... 84. Findings .......................................................................................... 104.1 Profile of Waterway Users ........................................................ 104.1.1 Demographic Profile ....................................................... 104.1.2 Country of Origin ............................................................ 134.1.3 Demographic Profile - Comparison with 2004 .............. 154.2 Visit to the Waterways ............................................................... 164.2.1 Information Sources ....................................................... 164.2.2 Purpose of Visit ............................................................... 174.2.3 Motivation to Visit ........................................................... 184.2.4 Activities Undertaken & Frequency ............................... 194.2.5 Association Membership................................................ 224.2.6 Party Composition and Size ........................................... 234.2.7 Time Spent on the Waterways ....................................... 254.2.8 Visit to the Waterways - Comparison with 2004 ........... 264.3 Rating of the Waterways ........................................................... 284.3.1 Overall Rating .................................................................. 284.3.2 Reasons for Positive Rating .......................................... 294.3.3 Reasons for Negative Rating ......................................... 304.3.4 Rating of Facilities .......................................................... 314.3.5 Development of Facilities ............................................... 324.3.6 Development of Facilities – Comparison with 2004 ..... 334.4 Access and Sharing the Waterways ........................................ 354.4.1 Accessing the Waterways .............................................. 354.4.2 Sharing the Waterways................................................... 374.4.3 Access and Sharing the Waterways – Comparisonwith 2004 .......................................................................... 384.5 International Visitors ................................................................. 404.6 Expenditure ................................................................................ 424.7 Waterways Ireland ..................................................................... 444.7.1 Awareness ....................................................................... 444.7.2 Source of Information about Waterways Ireland .......... 454.7.3 The Role of Waterways Ireland ...................................... 464.7.4 Waterways Ireland – Comparison with 2004 ................. 474.8 Equality Section ......................................................................... 484.8.1 Equality Section – Comparison with 2004 .................... 505. Conclusions .......................................................................................... 52Appendix A: Copy of Questionnaire10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

1Executive Summary10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

111. Executive SummaryWaterways Ireland is a North/South implementation body established under the BritishAgreement in 1999. Waterways Ireland is charged with the management, maintenance,development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways under its remit,principally for recreational purposes. Waterways Ireland in exercising its functions isrequired under legislation to “engage in promotion, including marketing anddevelopment of the tourism and commercial potential of the inland waterways for whichit has responsibility”.Waterways Ireland is responsible for seven waterways, namely the Barrow Navigation,the Erne System, the Grand Canal, the Lower Bann Navigation, the Royal Canal, theShannon-Erne Waterway and the Shannon Navigation.In 2004, Waterways Ireland commissioned research to obtain information on thedemographic profile of waterway users, to gather data on waterways products and tomeasure awareness of Waterways Ireland as the management authority on thenavigations. In 2010 Waterways Ireland commissioned Ipsos MRBI to conduct a repeatsurvey to update their understanding of who uses the navigations and how satisfiedthey are with the facilities now available.The research was conducted face-to-face amongst a sample of 1,625 waterway usersacross 23 points on the seven waterways. The research took place from mid August toearly October 2010. The sampling methodology employed was VNP (very next person)interviewing. Interviewing was weighted towards busier areas to reflect actual usage ofthe waterways.Demographic Profile of Waterway UsersThe research clearly demonstrates the broad appeal of the waterways, with all agesand social class groupings making use of the waterways. The results show that thewaterways are being used by more female visitors in 2010 (41%) than was the case in2004 (32%), bringing more balance to the gender profile of users.The broad appeal of the waterways is reflected in the wide variety of activities that arebeing undertaken on the waterways. Users are taking part in everything from jet skiingto feeding ducks. The sheer diversity of the activities mentioned by visitors illustratesthat the waterways have something on offer for everyone.Users of the waterways are primarily resident on the island of Ireland (82%), 66% arebased in the Republic of Ireland and 16% are based in Northern Ireland. Visitorscoming from overseas are mainly from Great Britain (7%), Germany (4%) and the USA(2%). Four in ten overseas visitors visited Ireland specifically to make use of thewaterways. This figure increases to 67% to those visiting from Europe.Information SourcesBefore users arrive on the waterways they are using a range of different sources toobtain information about the waterways. The most common source of information aboutthe waterways is word of mouth, with 39% of users hearing about the waterways from10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

22their friends and family. This figure demonstrates the importance of ensuring a goodexperience on the waterways so as to encourage this positive word of mouth acrosscommunities.The research also highlights that the Waterways Ireland website is an important sourceof information about the waterways, with 15% of all users using the website to gatherinformation about the waterways. This figure increases to 26% for overseas visitors.Visit to the WaterwaysWith regard to the purpose of the visit to the waterways, 61% of users stated that theywere regular users/locals. Just over one quarter of all users were holiday makers,clearly illustrating the importance of Waterways Ireland to the Irish tourism industry andthe Irish economy. This is particularly evident for the Shannon-Erne waterway wherehalf of all visitors were holiday makers.The key motivator for using the waterways is recreation (52%) followed bybreak/holiday (21%). A wide variety of recreational activities are being undertaken onthe waterways. The top three activities being undertaken are walking (62%), privatecruiser/barge (15%) and angling (11%).Party CompositionJust over two thirds of all users visited the waterways with at least one other person,highlighting the important social dimension of the waterways. In terms of the activitiesbeing undertaken, those who are cycling, swimming and walking are most likely to bevisiting the waterways alone. When waterway users are visiting with at least one otherperson, the average party size is three visitors.Rating of the WaterwaysThe waterways are rated highly overall with 90% of all users giving the waterways avery good/good rating. The Shannon waterway is the most highly rated waterway with75% of all users giving it a very good rating. The primary reason for a positive rating ofthe waterways is the enjoyment aspect (34%) followed by the natural environment(24%) and relaxation/peacefulness (19%). The proportion of users who provided anegative rating was modest, at 4%.The proportion of users who encountered difficulties accessing the waterways or whohad difficulties in sharing the waterways was also low, at just 3% and 2% respectively.Encouragingly, these figures represent a decline in the proportion of usersencountering such difficulties when compared with 2004.When users were asked to rate the facilities along the waterways the results clearlyshow that improvements have been made since 2004, with positive ratings increasingacross the board for all facilities and in particular for both children’s playgrounds andsignage for the waterways.Awareness of Waterways IrelandThree quarters of all waterway users are aware of Waterways Ireland. This representsa nine percentage point increase in awareness, when compared with 2004. Awarenesslevels increase to a high of 89% for those using the Grand Canal. Of those who were10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

33aware of Waterways Ireland, 91% were able to identify at least one of the functions ofWaterways Ireland. Information about Waterways Ireland is primarily obtained frombeing on the waterways (18%), from the internet (17%) and from signage (15%).EqualityThe majority of those using the waterways are English speakers (88%). In terms ofethnic origin, 98% are white. When asked their religious belief 70% stated that they areRoman Catholic and 12% stated that they are protestant. Those who have no religiousbelief account for 6% of waterway users.Over two thirds of waterway users have no caring responsibilities. Those who do havecaring responsibilities are caring mainly for children (27%).A small proportion of users (4%) considered themselves to have a disability.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

44Background & Objectives10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

552. Background and ObjectivesWaterways Ireland is a North/South implementation body established under the BritishAgreement in 1999. Waterways Ireland is charged with the management, maintenance,development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways under its remit,principally for recreational purposes. Waterways Ireland in exercising its functions isrequired under legislation to “engage in promotion, including marketing anddevelopment of the tourism and commercial potential of the inland waterways for whichit has responsibility”.Waterways Ireland is responsible for seven waterways, namely the Barrow Navigation,the Erne System, the Grand Canal, the Lower Bann Navigation, the Royal Canal, theShannon-Erne Waterway and the Shannon Navigation.In 2004, Waterways Ireland commissioned research to obtain information on thedemographic profile of waterway users, to gather data on waterways products and tomeasure awareness of Waterways Ireland as the management authority on thenavigations.In 2010 Waterways Ireland commissioned Ipsos MRBI to conduct a repeat survey inthis regard.The objectives of the 2010 research were as follows:– To obtain a demographic profile of current waterway users– To measure awareness of Waterways Ireland as the managementauthority on the navigations– To obtain a profile of the waterways product and new niche productsidentified– To measure the market in terms of market share held by differentproducts– To provide a comparison with 2004 research data where appropriate10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

66Research Methodology10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

773. Research MethodologyThe research was conducted face-to-face amongst a sample of 1,625 waterway users(i.e. those using the waterway in any way for recreation or leisure). The activitiescovered under the definition of recreation/leisure included:AnglingAttending An EventBoating - Boat TripBoating - Day BoatBoating - Hire Cruiser/BargeBoating - Power BoatingBoating - Private Cruiser/BargeCanoe PoloCanoeingCyclingJet SkiingRowingSailingSea PlaneWakeboardingWalkingWater SkiingWindsurfingAll respondents interviewed were aged 16 years and older.Fieldwork took place between 12 th August & 3 rd October 2010 at twenty three samplingpoints across the seven waterways. The sampling points were spread across bothurban and rural areas.Ipsos MRBI’s interviewers were instructed to conduct their interviewing on differentdays and at different times. Interviewing was weighted towards busier areas on theseven waterways.In order to gain an insight into the profile of waterway users, the sampling methodologywas designed so as not to skew the results. For this reason we used the VNP (VeryNext Person) interviewing approach. Interviewers stopped the next person encounteredalong the waterways to request their participation in the research. This included notonly people passing on the river banks but also those on the water itself and those inmoored boats.Each participant completed an interviewer administered questionnaire approximatelyten minutes in length which covered demographic information, the purpose of visit,overall experience and awareness of Waterways Ireland.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

883.1 Interviews AchievedInterviews Achieved X WaterwayThe total number of interviews achieved at each of the seven waterways isoutlined below:7574216129152137188229Barrow Erne Grand Canal Lower Bann Royal Canal Shannon Erne ShannonIpsos MRBI/10-031982/Waterways Ireland-Waterway Users Research 2010/October 2010The chart below details the number of interviews achieved at each of the twentythree points along the seven waterways:10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

99Findings10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

10104. Findings4.1 Profile of Waterway Users4.1.1 Demographic ProfileThe research clearly demonstrates that the waterways have broadappeal and are enjoyed across a wide variety of demographicgroupings. The chart below shows that the full range of age groups ismaking use of the waterways. The core group of users are agedbetween 35 and 64 years (54%). This figure is highest for the GrandCanal and Shannon-Erne waterways where 63% of waterway users areaged between 35 and 64 years.The Barrow attracts the largest proportion of young users: almost onequarter of users on this waterway are aged between 16-24 years.Figure 1: Age Profile35-4928233533WaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,614) (215) (128) (148) (137) (188) (224) (574)% % % % % % % %84416-24 1317 1420241918 2425-34 18151818202637322450-6426 19 2630 2016372965-7475+11113 6129 10 111372 1 3 2 2 3Base: All who provided age information10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

1111Looking at usage of the waterways by gender, three out of every fiveusers are male. However, usage of the waterways by gender hasbecome more balanced in the last number of years, with more femalesusing the waterways in 2010 (41%) than was the case in 2004 (32%).Figure 2: Gender ProfileWaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,625) (216) (129) (152) (137) (188) (229) (574)% % % % % % % %Male595068 71565259 59Female415032 29444841 41Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

1212The chart below illustrates that the marital status of those using thewaterways broadly reflects the profile of the population as illustrated onthe chart below.Figure 3: Marital StatusWaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,606) (214) (125) (148) (137) (186) (227) (567)% % % % % % % %Married/ livingas married6149686055 527364SingleWidowed/separated/divorced4332257 8 728 36 42292212 9 6 5 6Base: All who provided marital status informationThose using the waterways are coming from all socio-economicbackgrounds further demonstrating the broad appeal of the waterways.At an overall level, 46% of users are from the higher socio-economicgroupings of Managerial/Technical and Professional. This figureincreases to 56% for the Erne waterway and to 54% for both theShannon-Erne and the Shannon waterways.Figure 4: OccupationWaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,625) (216) (129) (152) (137) (188) (229) (574)% % % % % % % %Managerial/technical26168312336181427 29Professional2022251792127 25Skilled manualNon-manualSemi-skilledUnskilledOther & Unknown1911841212139211795212229831722199982 913 11201074417106211Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

13134.1.2 Country of OriginWaterway users are primarily living on the island of Ireland (82%).Those coming from overseas to use the waterways are coming mainlyfrom Great Britain, Germany and the USA.Country Of Residence – IFigure 5: Country of OriginBase: All waterway users* Indicates less than 1%10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

1414Comparing country of origin across the waterways, the Shannon-Erneand Shannon waterways attract the highest proportion of internationalusers with 27% and 29% respectively. In addition, both waterways areattracting a good spread of visitors in terms of country of origin. Bothwaterways are clearly important to the tourism industry in thesurrounding areas.The Barrow and the Lower Bann waterways are least likely to attractoverseas visitors.Country Of Residence – IIFigure 6: Country of Origin By WaterwayWaterwayTotalBarrowErneGrandCanalLowerBannRoyalCanalShannonErneShannon(1,625)(216)(129)(152)(137)(188)(229)(574)%%%%%%%%Republic of Ireland66959881916769Northern Ireland16178196-62Great Britain7210322158Germany4-231147USA2----125France1*-1-113Australia1--111-1All Others4124-555Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

15154.1.3 Demographic Profile - Comparison with 2004Comparing the demographic profile results with the 2004 data it is clearthat females are more likely to make use of the waterways than was thecase in 2004. The proportion of those using the waterways who areaged 50-64 years has also increased versus 2004. Marital status hasremained broadly in line with the 2004 findings and with the populationin general.Figure 7: 2004 vs. 2010 ComparisonGender Age Marital Status Country of Origin2004 2010 2004 2010 2004 2010 2004 2010(1,449) (1,625) (1,449) (1,614) (1,449) (1,606) (1,640) (1,625)% % % % % % % %16-2413 13Male685925-3417 18Married/living asmarried62 61RoI586635-493628Female324150-6465-7475+262211111 3SingleWid/Sep/DivorcedNI 241630 32GB6 7Germany5 4USA 1 27 7 Other 6 6Base: All who provided profile information10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

16164.2 Visit to the Waterways4.2.1 Information SourcesWord of mouth is the key source of information for waterway users withfour in ten users hearing about the waterways from friends and family.This demonstrates how important ensuring a good experience andsubsequent positive word of mouth is in attracting new users to thewaterways. Furthermore, 62% of all overseas visitors found out aboutthe waterways from friends and family, reinforcing the importance ofensuring a good experience for overseas visitors.Just over one in five waterway users (21%) obtained information aboutthe waterways from the Waterways Ireland website and/or theWaterways Ireland Office. Visitors to the Shannon-Erne and theShannon are most likely to make use of the Waterways Ireland Website.One quarter (26%) of overseas visitors used the Waterways Irelandwebsite to obtain information about the waterways. These figureshighlight the important role of Waterways Ireland as an informationsource for those using the waterways.Tourist guide books provided information on the waterways for 9% of allusers. An analysis of the data shows that this figure increases to 25%for overseas visitors, suggesting the need for information on thewaterways to be included in key tourist guide publications.Figure 8: Information SourcesWaterwayTotal(1,625)Barrow(216)%Erne(129)%GrandCanal(152)%LowerBann(137)%RoyalCanal(188)%ShannonErne(229)%Shannon(574)%Friends/relatives/WOM39%13312943174656Live in the Area33%4418206177426Regular User16%61122832025Waterways Ireland Website15%1512-14021Internet14%2822-41821Tourist Guide Book9%-393-1216Tourist Office7%-34511711Lakelands Website7%321-21413Waterways Ireland Office6%188-1157Leaflets/Posters5%63123174Newspaper/Magazine4%5249-64Lock Keepers4%2117-144Cruise Hire CompanyTour guideRadio/TVOther4%2%1%4%--*22221253-8-115---175-36323Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

17174.2.2 Purpose of VisitOne quarter of those using the waterways are holiday makers,highlighting the importance of the waterways to tourism in Ireland and tothe Irish economy. This is particularly evident for the Shannon-Ernewaterway where 50% of all users were holiday makers.Looking at holiday makers overall, 47% are domestic tourists (ROI & NI)and 53% are coming from overseas.Day trippers account for 2% of all users. The majority of those on a daytrip to the waterways are walking (78%).Figure 9: Purpose of VisitWaterwayTotal(1,625)Barrow(216)%Erne(129)%GrandCanal(152)%LowerBann(137)%RoyalCanal(188)%ShannonErne(229)%Shannon(574)%Regular user40%66365923381840Holiday maker26%44219755035Local21%17121164471410Visiting Friends/relatives9%135756129Day Trip2%-411153Other2%-231132Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

18184.2.3 Motivation to VisitThe key motivator for visiting the waterways is participation in arecreation or activity, with 52% stating this as a reason for their visit.The spread of the recreational use of the waterways acrosscommunities is a highly valuable resource. The second most popularreason to visit is for a short break or holiday. The natural environment, interms of scenery and well kept areas, was a motivator for 13% ofwaterway users. The Shannon-Erne and Shannon waterways scorehighly for break/holiday again here, along with the Erne and GrandCanal waterways.Figure 10: Motivation to VisitWaterwayTotal(1,625)Barrow(216)%Erne(129)%GrandCanal(152)%LowerBann(137)%RoyalCanal(188)%ShannonErne(229)%Shannon(574)%Recreation/activity52%70545562763442For a break/holiday21%12529432832Natural environment13%1367239916Relaxation12%138114122210Came with family/friends11%13916712139I live locally/convenient11%1857351418Previous experience2%-24-151Suitable for children2%34443*1Safe 1%---11-2Always wanted to 1%-21-111Recommended by family/friends 1%*211131Other4%52513103Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

19194.2.4 Activities Undertaken & FrequencyFigure 11 illustrates the wide variety of activities that are undertaken onthe waterways. The majority of users encountered on the waterwayswere walking (62%). Private cruising was undertaken by 15% of users.Angling accounted for 11% of users and hire/cruiser barge for 8%. Theranking of these top four activities is consistent with the 2004 findings.The Grand Canal and Erne waterways attracted the highest proportionof boaters in general and in particular of those on a privatecruiser/barge. 38% of those using the Grand Canal and 29% of thoseusing the Erne were on a private cruiser/barge.The Shannon-Erne is the most popular waterway for angling (24%).Figure 11: Activities UndertakenWalkingPrivate Cruiser/BargeAnglingHire Cruiser/BargeDay BoatBoat TripPicnicCyclingRowingRelaxingCanoeingJet SkiingSailingPower BoatingCampingAttending an eventWakeboardingWatching BoatsWater SkiingVisiting Tourist OfficeFeeding the DucksSwimming15%11%8%5%5%5%4%4%3%2%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%Total(1,625)62%Barrow(216)%83211-1-34-21--*--*---23Erne(129)%192941351012-374-512522-2-GrandCanal(152)%3338992124-14123------1-WaterwayLower RoyalBann Canal(137) (188)% %82 791 2- 5- 1- 16 -4 22 10- -- 21 2- -- 11 -- -- -3 -- -4 -1 -- 1- -ShannonErne Shannon(229) (574)% %59 6117 1824 1316 119 99 610 61 33 98 2- 23 23 2* 14 22 21 -2 11 -- 2- *1 -*Responses less than 1% not shownBase: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

2020In terms of the frequency of usage, Figure 12 shows that walkers, cyclistsand rowers are the most frequent users of the waterways with each using thewaterways for more than 100 days per year. Jet skiers make less frequentusage of the waterways, using them for 7 days on average per year.Looking at experience levels, those on a day boat, boat trip or water skiingare most likely to be new to the activity. Those on private cruiser/barge arethe most experienced in the activity with 63% stating that they are veryexperienced.Figure 12: Frequency and Experience of ActivitiesUsageVery ExperiencedNew toActivityAvg. No. Days%%Rowing1273612Walking113522Cycling11349-Private Cruiser/Barge61636Canoeing524712Power Boating4559-Swimming3922-Sailing364817Angling322915Boat Trip312333Wakeboarding293813Day Boat172146Water Skiing163831Hire Cruiser/Barge12258Jet Skiing73813Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

2121An analysis of the activities undertaken by party composition shows thatthose who are cycling, swimming and walking are most likely to be visitingthe waterways alone. Perhaps unsurprisingly, those who are on a hirecruiser/barge are most likely to visit the waterways with others (98%).Figure 13: Activity by Party CompositionCyclingSwimmingWalkingSailingAnglingPower BoatingBoat TripCanoeingDay BoatPrivate Cruiser/BargeWakeboardingJet SkiingRowingHire Cruiser/BargeWater SkiingVisitingAlone%564440262414141211106452-Visiting WithAnother Person%4456607476968688899094969598100Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

22224.2.5 Association MembershipAt an overall level, 13% of all waterway users are members of at leastone of the listed organisations. Of those who are using a privatecruiser/barge, 61% are members of the IWAI, 4% are members of HBAand 3% are members of the RCAG.Looking at those who are members of any of these organisations wesee that their profile broadly reflects the profile of waterway users ingeneral, tending to be more male and peaking in the 35-64 year agegroup.Over one third of private cruiser/barge users are not members of anyorganisation.Figure 14: Association MembershipPrivate Cruiser/Barge(248)IWAI61%HBA4%RCAG3%None of these37%Base: All private cruiser/barge: 24810-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

23234.2.6 Party Composition and SizeJust over two thirds of all users visited the waterways with at least oneother person, highlighting the important social dimension of the waterways.All types of social groupings are using the waterways including couples,groups of friends or families with children.The Erne and Lower Bann waterways are most likely to attract families withchildren under 12. Day trippers are most likely to visit with young children,with 28% visiting with children aged under 12. Regular users are leastlikely to visit with children under 12 at 11%. The proportion of users visitingwith any children is 18%.Those visiting alone were mainly regular users and locals (92%). As onewould expect, the vast majority of holiday makers visited with at least oneother person. Just 2% of all holiday makers were found to be visiting thewaterways alone.Figure 15: Party CompositionWaterwayTotal(1,625)Barrow(216)%Erne(129)%GrandCanal(152)%LowerBann(137)%RoyalCanal(188)%ShannonErne(229)%Shannon(574)%Alone33%66123136631621Couple27%9263021134133Group of Friends24%13382412112831Family children u.1215%12281627141212Family children 13-185%*755185Club/group*----1-*Professional Organisation**---1--Employer*------*Other*---1--1Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

2424When waterway users are visiting with at least one other person, theaverage party size is three visitors. The Erne and the Shannonwaterways attracted the highest proportion of groups with five or morevisitors.Party SizeFigure 16: Party SizeWaterwayTotal(1,096)%Barrow(74)%Erne(113)%GrandCanal(105)%LowerBann(87)%RoyalCanal(70)%ShannonErne(192)%Shannon(455)%2344714204915163117244914195621960141745131947132256-1011-20691711618-79-651113610-710*21+Not StatedMean Score*33.33193.33-43.76-33.16-22.93-32.91-63.25113.43Base: All visiting with others10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

25254.2.7 Time Spent on the WaterwaysOver half of all users were visiting the waterways for a half day or less,reflecting the high level of recreational usage for activities such aswalking, day boating, cycling and so on.Visitors to the Shannon-Erne and Shannon waterways are most likely tospend one week or more on the waterways reflecting the fact that takinga break/holiday was a strong motivator to visit these areas. The Erne,Shannon-Erne and Grand Canal waterways are most likely to attractthose visiting for 2-4 days.Figure 17: Time Spent on WaterwaysWaterwayTotal(1,625)Barrow(216)%Erne(129)%GrandCanal(152)%LowerBann(137)%RoyalCanal(188)%ShannonErne(229)%Shannon(574)%Half day or less56%963542868825441 day11%*1587122152 days7%-10192-1283-4 days8%-1415-113105-6 days3%-331-34One week8%1145111412More than 1 week4%*351196Not stated2%253192-Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

26264.2.8 Visit to the Waterways - Comparison with 2004Comparing the 2004 and 2010 visit, it is clear that the majority of userscontinue to be regular users and locals. Recreation and taking abreak/holiday remain the key motivators for usage of the waterways.The top four activities remain unchanged in terms of ranking, howeverthe usage of day boats has moved up the ranking since 2004. Theproportion taking a day trip has increased in 2010.Looking at the level of experience of users participating in the Top Fiveactivities, 63% of those on a private cruiser/barge claim to be veryexperienced or experienced in this activity. Those on a boat trip wereleast experienced with just under one quarter (23%) claiming to be veryexperienced or experienced in this activity.Figure 18: 2004 vs. 2010 Comparison IPurpose of VisitMotivation to Use – Top 5Experience of Users – Top 5200420102004201020042010%%%%%%Regular user3740Recreation/activity*4263Walking4452Holiday maker3426Relaxation/break/holiday3833Private cruiser/barge4663Local2121Natural environment1513Angling4129Visiting friends/relatives39Friends & family1012Hire cruiser/barge1725Day trip12Previous experience42Boat trip4123Other42Base: All waterway users*Figures combined to match 2004 definitions –’ recreation/activity’ figure includes ‘I live locally’. Friendsand family is combined for ‘came with family and friends’ and ‘recommended by family and friends’.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

2727In terms of party composition, more users were visiting alone in 2010. Interms of information sources, friends/relatives/word of mouth continuesto be the core source of information about the waterways, whilewebsite/internet is becoming more important. At an overall level usersare now spending less time on the waterways with 56% visiting for a halfday compared to 33% in 2004. The increase in half day visits reflectsthe type of recreational activities being undertaken such as walking.Figure 19: 2004 vs. 2010 Comparison IIParty CompositionInformation Sources – Top 5Length of Stay (exc. half day)20042010*2004201020042010%%%%%%Group of friends2623Friends/relatives/WOM4439One day1511Couple2226Live in the area3133Two days97Alone1931Regular user2816Three to four days78Family (u.12’s)1615Waterways websiten/a15Five to six days33Family (13-18’s)105The internet1214One week168Club/group3*More than one week134Other31Not sure42Base: All Waterway Users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

28284.3 Rating of the Waterways4.3.1 Overall RatingOverall the waterways are viewed positively with 90% rating thewaterways as very good or good. The Shannon waterway is the mosthighly rated waterway with 75% rating it as very good. Considering thatthis waterway is used by both overseas and domestic holidaymakers,this high approval rating demonstrates the strong positioning of thiswaterway within the tourism market in Ireland. The proportion of usersrating the waterways as poor or very poor is just 4% overall. There isclearly an opportunity to improve on ratings at the Royal Canal whichhas the lowest rating overall.Figure 20: Overall Rating of WaterwaysWaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,421) (180) (105) (147) (137) (186) (161) (505)% % % % % % % %23Very good553950 51 4955754449Good3540 38 4535FairPoorVery poor89 7 561 3 113 4 6 - 4 22 111-21Mean score 4.41 4.26 4.34 4.33 4.43 3.86 4.40 4.712822Base: All who provided a rating10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

29294.3.2 Reasons for Positive RatingUsers rate the waterways highly if they enjoy their time there (34%),because of the natural environment (24%) and because of theopportunity it offers for relaxation/peacefulness (19%). The Erne, theRoyal Canal and the Grand Canal score the highest in terms of havinggood facilities.Figure 21: Reasons for Positive Rating2010(1,275)Barrow(160)%Erne(94)%GrandCanal(131)%WaterwayLowerRoyalBannCanal(129)(125)%%ShannonErne(145)%Shannon(491)%Enjoyed it/good day out34%14323615195744Natural environment24%49191552241217Relaxation/peacefulness19%214159192922Good facilities14%9402773855Activities one can do13%19911928311Good weather9%548311213Well kept/maintained6%4-824343Not too crowded2%1424332Live nearby/convenient2%1225-32Area has been improved2%1-11114*Easy to access2%2-21132*Responses less than 1% not shownBase: All who rated waterway as good/very good10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

30304.3.3 Reasons for Negative RatingIn the 35 cases where a negative rating was provided, a lack of or poorfacilities were noted. Litter and pollution appear to be issues on theRoyal Canal.Figure 22: Reasons for Negative Rating2010(35)*Barrow(3)*%Erne(4)*%GrandCanal(8)*%WaterwayLowerRoyalBannCanal(-)(8)*%%ShannonErne(6)*%Shannon(6)*%Facilities - lack of/poor23%-2538-25-33Dirty/untidy/litter/pollution14%--13-50--Too many weeds11%335013----Bad weather11%-----67-Water levels too low6%-2513----Paths need to be improved3%----13--Other9%33----1717Not Stated26%33-25-131717Base: All who rated waterway as poor or very poor*Caution Small Base Size10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

31314.3.4 Rating of FacilitiesFacilities on the waterways are rated positively in general. Looking atthe facilities managed by Waterways Ireland, car parking (83%),mooring facilities (82%) and waterway guide books and maps scorehighest in terms of a positive rating (very good/good).Based on negative ratings (poor/very poor) there appears to be someroom for improvement with regard to electrical and refuelling facilities,ship chandlery, playgrounds, pump out facilities and showers.Figure 23: Rating of FacilitiesShowers (565)Toilets – availability (1,052)Toilets – quality (1,030)Quality of guidebooks and maps (874)Availability of info about waterways (960)Signage for the waterways (1091)Suitability for children (958)Restaurants (970)Accommodation along the waterways (552)Pubs (908)Fresh water sources (638)Ship chandlery (397)Children ’ s playgrounds (629)VeryGood%2521211922202335404526926Good%39514862595757504445583944Neither%15131497141056482613Poor%96757465444107VeryPoor%1199556355351610MeanScore%3.593.713.653.863.863.843.904.084.114.243.963.153.70Base: All who rated facility= Managed by Waterways Ireland= Managed by Other Agency/OrganisationMooring facilities (608)VeryGood%24Good%57Neither%7Poor%8VeryPoor%4MeanScore%3.88Winter berthing facilities (336)195610873.72Car parking (981)39534224.25Pump out facilities (410)195310993.63Waterway guidebooks & maps (712)22645453.93Angling facilities (577)30605314.15Tow paths (851)32574534.10Electricity (393)14371317193.09Boat yards (382)174920773.61Security (747)24549763.82Refuelling facilities (500)1950138103.59Shops (988)33495573.96= Managed by Waterways IrelandBase: All who rated facility= Managed by Other Agency/Organisation10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

32324.3.5 Development of FacilitiesFour in ten waterway users feel that there is no requirement for facilitiesto be developed. Where suggestions were made they were spreadacross a variety of issues. One third of those using the Royal Canalsuggested that more bins/cleaning up litter were a priority for this area.Security and lighting also warrant improvement according to one in fiveusers of the Royal Canal.Figure 24: Development of FacilitiesWaterwayNo development requiredTotal(1,625)%40Barrow(216)%41Erne(129)%38GrandCanal(152)%20LowerBann(137)%38RoyalCanal(188)%10ShannonErneShannon(229)(574)%%5651More bins/clean up litter911314932*4More marinas/jetties/mooring/berthing73111041710More seating6115171962Improved security/lighting624772115More/better toilets551082725More better signage4*3411133Maintain grass/bushes etc .45291631More/better pathways/walkways/towpaths36-1227*1More electricity facilities31911-113More/better shops/coffee shops311115322More development of facilities general322612-4*Responses less than 3% not shownBase: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

33334.3.6 Development of Facilities – Comparison with 2004While there is still room for improvement regarding pump out facilitiesand refuelling facilities, clearly improvements have been made since2004.Figure 25: 2004 vs. 2010 Comparison IMooring facilitiesWinter berthing facilitiesCar parkingPump out facilitiesWaterway guidebooks & mapsAngling facilitiesTow pathsElectricityBoat yardsSecurityRefuelling facilitiesShopsPositive Rating20042010%%8281767483923472828679907189n/a517166737845697282Negative Rating20042010%%912141594361810995148n/a361714121336181412= Managed by Waterways Ireland= Managed by Other Agency/Organisation10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

3434Positive ratings have increased across the board for all items noted atfigure 26 below, in particular for children’s playgrounds and signage forthe waterways. The improvement in children’s playgrounds is welcomegiven that 18% of users are visiting with at least one child. However, asnoted earlier in this document, there is room for further improvementwith regard to children’s playgrounds.Figure 26: 2004 vs. 2010 Comparison IIShowersToilets - availabilityToilets - qualityQuality of guidebooks and mapsAvailability of info about waterwaysSignage for the waterwaysSuitability for childrenRestaurantsAccommodation along the waterwaysPubsFresh water sourcesShip chandleryChildren’s playgroundsPositive Rating20042010%%4465n/a72n/a697682768168967680748678868990738442484870Negative Rating20042010%%4220n/a15n/a161210131220912913101484715945264517= Managed by Waterways Ireland= Managed by Other Agency/Organisation10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

35354.4 Access and Sharing the Waterways4.4.1 Accessing the WaterwaysPositively, 97% of waterway users did not have any difficulty inaccessing the waterways. The Lower Bann scores highest in this regardat 100%.Figure 27: Difficulties Accessing the Waterways - IWaterwayYesGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,625) (216) (129) (152) (137) (188) (229) (574)% % % % % % % %3 17 6-2 4 4No97 9993 94100 98 96 96Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

3636In the 53 cases where there was a difficulty in accessing the waterways,insufficient mooring space was the main difficulty at 40%. Other usersnoted difficulties across a variety of areas such as overgrown weeds,difficulty mooring boats and poor signage. However, it is important tonote that signage ratings have improved significantly since 2004 asdetailed at Figure 26. Disabled access was noted as a difficulty only onthe Shannon Waterway.Difficulties EncounteredFigure 28: Difficulties Accessing the Waterways - IIWaterwayTotal(53)%Barrow(2)*%Erne(9)*%GrandCanal(9)*%LowerBann(-)%RoyalCanal(3)*%ShannonErne(9)*%Shannon(21)*%Insufficient mooring space40-2244--5648Overgrown weeds9-3322----Poor signage9-11----19Difficult to moor boats8-11---33-Locks too narrow6--22--11-Waterway needs to be dredged6501111----No disabled access4------10Inexperienced users4-1111----Lock closed2----33--Other195022--67-24Base: All who encountered difficulties*Caution Small Base Size10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

37374.4.2 Sharing the WaterwaysWhen it comes to sharing the waterways the majority of users are notencountering any difficulties. Users on the Erne are most likely toencounter difficulties at 9%.Figure 29: Difficulties Sharing the Waterways - IYes2-9WaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,625) (216) (129) (152) (137) (188) (229) (574)% % % % % % % %3 2 1 3 2No98 1009197 98 99 97 98Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

3838In the 40 cases where difficulties in sharing the waterways were noted,harbour hoggers and boats going too fast were the main difficulties.Harbour hoggers were mentioned by users on the Erne, the GrandCanal, Shannon-Erne and the Shannon. Boats going too fast was notedon the Erne, Shannon-Erne and the Shannon.Difficulties Encountered In SharingWaterwayFigure 30: Difficulties Sharing the Waterways - IIWaterwayTotal(40)*Barrow(-)Erne(11)*GrandCanal(5)*LowerBann(3)*RoyalCanal(2)*ShannonErne(6)*Shannon(13)*%%%%%%%%Harbour hoggers28-960--3338Boats going too fast28-27---1754Inexperienced users10-960----Jet skis10-27----8Crowded3-9-----Other13-9-3310017-Base: All who encountered difficulties*Caution Small Base Size4.4.3 Access and Sharing the Waterways – Comparison with 2004Comparing the data with 2004, the results show an improvement with adecline in the proportion of waterway users experiencing a difficulty inaccessing the waterways from 6% in 2004 to 3% in 2010Figure 31: Difficulties Accessing the Waterways 2004 vs. 2010Yes2004(1,640)%2010(1,625)%6 3No93 97Don’t know1-Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

3939The proportion with difficulties accessing the waterways has alsodeclined versus 2004.Figure 32: Difficulties Accessing the Waterways 2004 vs. 2010Yes2004(1,640)%112010(1,625)%2No8898Don’t know1Base: All waterway users-10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

40404.5 International VisitorsFour in ten overseas visitors visited Ireland specifically to experience thewaterways, again clearly demonstrating the contribution of the waterways to thetourism industry in Ireland. This figure is highest for Europe where 67% ofwaterway users came to Ireland specifically to use the waterways.Figure 33: Visiting Ireland Specifically to Experience WaterwaysVisiting From …Total Britain USA Europe(292) (110) (35)* (110)% % % %14Yes41306786No597033Base: All international visitors*Caution Small Base Size10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

4141Positively, 61% of all international visitors would be encouraged to return toIreland based on their experience of the waterways. This figure is highest forthe Shannon waterway at 64%, a particularly important figure given that thiswaterway also attracted the highest proportion of international visitors.Figure 34: Would Experience on Waterways Encourage You to Visit IrelandAgain?WaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(292) (9)* (17)* (17)* (5)* (16)* (62) (166)% % % % % % % %Yes61445947604463 64Maybe37442947 204437 36No2011 121326--Base: All international visitors*Caution Small Base SizeLength Of Stay In IrelandIn terms of length of visit, those visiting from the USA are staying in Irelandlongest with 92% staying for one week or more. Visitors from Great Britain aremost likely to be on a short break of 1-3 days.Figure 35: Length of Stay in IrelandTotal(292)%Britain(110)%Visiting From …USA Europe(35)* (110)% %1 – 3 days919-44 – 6 days611331 – 2 weeks72628682>2 weeks8566Not Stated6366Base: All international visitors*Caution Small Base Size10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

42424.6 ExpenditureAll waterway users interviewed were asked about their expenditure on thewaterways in terms of equipment and boat hire for the season (March toOctober) and in terms of expenditure on the current visit to the waterways. Theaverage spend on the items listed below is based only on those users whospent something in the category.16% of waterways users had spent something on equipment over the course ofthe boating season. The average amount spent on equipment during theboating season is €613 per person. The average amount spent on boat hire is€206.Figure 36: Expenditure During Boating SeasonAverageSpendEquipment PurchaseBoat Hire€ Per Party€1,732€764€ Per Person613206Average spend provided is based on those who provided a response for each category.Boating season defined as March 2010 to date.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

4343Looking at the current visit, accommodation is the largest expenditure item, withwaterway users spending an average of €137 per person on accommodation.Unsurprisingly both food and drink were the items most likely to have been paidfor during the visit, with 45% of respondents spending on food and 45%spending on drink. As the majority of visitors on the waterways were there forwalking and other short stay recreational activities, it stands to reason that 55%did not spend anything in the food and drink categories.Figure 37: Expenditure on Current VisitAverage SpendFuel€ Per Party€44€ Per Person€25Accommodation€392€137Food€191€63Drink€79€26Shopping (Food)€105€32Shopping (Non-Food)€132€38Other€81€20*Average spend provided is based on those who provided a response for each category.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

44444.7 Waterways Ireland4.7.1 AwarenessPositively, three quarters of all waterway users are aware of WaterwaysIreland. This figure increases to a high of 89% for those using the GrandCanal. Waterway users aged 35 or over are most likely to be aware ofWaterways Ireland. In terms of gender, male users are more likely to beaware of Waterways Ireland than female users.Figure 38: Awareness of Waterways Ireland IWaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,625) (216) (129) (152) (137) (188) (229) (574)% % % % % % % %Yes7561848950718876No2539161150291224Base: All waterway usersFigure 39: Awareness of Waterways Ireland IIGenderAgeTotal Male Female 16-24 25-34 35-49 50-64 65-74 75+(1,625) (953) (672) (217) (298) (452) (424) (178) (45)*% % % % % % % % %50Yes7581666880 83 81 8050No2519343220 17 19 20Base: All international users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

45454.7.2 Source of Information about Waterways IrelandUsage of the waterways, the internet and signage on the waterways arethe top three sources of information about Waterways Ireland. Theinternet is of particular importance for the Shannon-Erne and Shannonwaterways.Source Of Information AboutWaterways Ireland – I*Figure 40: Source of Information on Waterways Ireland IFrom being on waterway/regular userInternetSignsTVMember/when registering vesselFriends/family told meLocal knowledge/live in areaNewspaperWaterways Ireland vansBillboardWord of mouthTourist officeTotal(1,213)%181715987664433Barrow(132)%331715185139321Erne(109)%20126896415-191GrandCanal(135)%36132-137717-44WaterwayLower RoyalBann Canal(68) (134)% %15 164 44 421 1- -1 83 2610 64 103 -10 43 1ShannonErne(201)%103635-7104154-5Shannon(434)%1222191414514*713*Responses less than 3% not shownBase: All aware of Waterways IrelandJust under half of all overseas visitors learned about Waterways Irelandthrough the internet (45%). Signage is a source of information for one infive overseas visitors.Source Of Information AboutWaterways Ireland – II*Figure 41: Source of Information on Waterways Ireland IICountry of OriginFrom being on waterway/regular userInternetSignsTVMember/when registering vesselFriends/family told meLocal knowledge/live in areaNewspaperWaterways Ireland vansBillboardWord of mouthTourist officeTotal(1,213)%181715987664433RepublicOf Ireland(850)%20131510107865422NorthernIreland(173)%1997126341222102Other(190)%945211311-12316*Responses less than 3% not shownBase: All aware of Waterways Ireland10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

46464.7.3 The Role of Waterways IrelandManagement, maintenance and development of the waterways wereidentified as the key roles of Waterways Ireland by respondents at anoverall level and also by respondents who were previously aware ofWaterways Ireland.Positively, 91% of those who were aware of Waterways Ireland wereable to identify at least one of the roles of Waterways Ireland. Theaverage number of roles identified by those aware of Waterways Irelandwas two.Figure 42: The Role of Waterways IrelandManagement of the waterwaysMaintenance of the waterwaysDevelopment of the waterwaysMarketingRestorationEvent organisationAll Respondents(1,625)6%9%20%35%41%40%All Aware ofWaterways Ireland(1,213)51%48%43%24%11%7%Hire/rent boats**Other2%2%Don’t know22%9%Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

47474.7.4 Waterways Ireland – Comparison with 2004Comparing the 2004 and 2010 data highlights improved awareness ofWaterways Ireland, which has increased from 66% to 75% overall.Figure 43: Awareness of Waterways Ireland2004(1,640)%2010(1,625)%Yes6675NoDon’t know34-Base: All waterway users25-10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

48484.8 Equality SectionThe Waterways Ireland Equality Scheme, which was approved in September2002, sets out the organisation's strong commitment to promoting equality ofopportunity and good relations in carrying out its functions. With this in mind theresearch questionnaire included a section dedicated to Equality.The vast majority (88%) of waterway users were found to be English speakers.In terms of religious belief 70% of waterway users identified themselves asRoman Catholic.Figure 44: First Language of VisitorsWaterwayGrand Lower Royal ShannonTotal Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon(1,625) (216) (129) (152 ) (137) (188) (229) (569)% % % % % % % %English88 89968896858984GermanIrishFrenchOther*2 74 5311 *21 21536 8-126 8* *3*4 6Base: All waterway usersFigure 45: Religious BeliefTotal(1,625)%Roman Catholic70ProtestantNo religion or beliefOther ChristianOtherRefused126417Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

4949Family StatusJust over one third of users have no caring responsibilities. Where there arecaring responsibilities they are mainly caring for children.Figure 46: Caring ResponsibilitiesTotal(1,625)No caring responsibilities68%Caring for children27%Caring for other dependent relatives or persons3%Separated1%Caring for persons with a disability1%Other*Refused1%Base: All waterway usersA small proportion (4%) of waterway users considers themselves to have adisability.Figure 47: DisabilityTotal(1,625)Yes4%No96%Base: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

5050In terms of ethnic origin, 98% of waterway users are white.Figure 48: Ethnic OriginTotal(1,625)%White98Black - AfricanAll other11Base: All waterway users4.8.1 Equality Section – Comparison with 2004Comparing the data with 2004 the most significant changes are notablein the religious belief section. Looking at the 2010 data in light of the2006 CSO Census figures and the National Statistics Office of NorthernIreland 2001 data, the 2010 proportions appear to be more in line withthe general population in terms of religious belief.Figure 49: Equality Comparison 2004 vs. 2010First LanguageReligious BeliefFamily Status2004%2010%2004%2010*%2004%2010%English8888Roman Catholic5276No caring responsibility5668German64Protestant2112Care for Children3727Irish21No religion or belief187Dependent relative33French11Other Christian64Persons with disabilities 11Other25Other31Other32Persons with DisabilitiesRace/Ethnic Origin2004201020042010%%%%Yes44White9998No9696Black African*1Other11* Repercentaged exc. refusedBase: All waterway users10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

5151Conclusions10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

52525. ConclusionsAt an overall level the results from the research are very positive: the waterways arehighly rated overall, they are being utilised by a wide variety of people and there hasbeen notable improvements in the rating of various facilities. Furthermore, awarenessof Waterways Ireland has increased when compared with the 2004 data. Bearing inmind the wide variety of visitor types and topics covered by the research, we have puttogether conclusions based on the key findings from the research.The research highlights the significant role that the waterways play in the Irishtourism industry. Just over one quarter of users interviewed describedthemselves as holiday makers. This figure increases to 50% for the Shannon-Erne waterway. 47% of these holiday makers are domestic tourists(Irish/Northern Irish) and 53% are from overseas. On this basis WaterwaysIreland should ensure that the focus on the waterways as a tourist destination ismaintained and that both domestic and international visitors continue to betargeted for holidays and breaks on the waterways.Almost one in four users heard about the waterways from friends/relatives/wordof mouth. This figure demonstrates how important as positive experience is todriving usage of the waterways. The spread of the recreational use of thewaterways across communities is a highly desirable outcome. Therefore it isvital to ensure that waterway users have a good experience in order to furtherencourage positive word of mouth.Awareness of Waterways Ireland has increased by nine percentage points to75% since the research was last conducted in 2004. Of those who were awareof the waterways, 91% were able to identify one or more of the functions ofwaterways Ireland. Clearly the message about who Waterways Ireland are andtheir role is being communicated. In order to maintain and improve their profileWaterways Ireland need continue work in the area of promoting themselves,communicating their function and highlighting its importance.The research illustrates how important Waterways Ireland is as an informationsource about the waterways. One in four visitors used the Waterways Irelandwebsite and/or the Waterways Ireland office in order to obtain information aboutthe waterways. Looking at the data by waterway, those visiting the Shannon-Erne and Shannon waterways are most likely to use the Waterways Irelandwebsite. The profile of the Waterways Ireland website and offices as informationsources should continue to be a focus.Ratings for the Royal Canal are less positive than for other waterways with just23% of users rating this waterway as very good. When asked what facilitiescould be further developed, one third of visitors to this area mentioned morebins/cleaning up litter. One in four mentioned that Security and lighting could beimproved upon. In addition, playgrounds are a particular issue for the RoyalCanal with 88% rating them negatively. With the Royal Canal having re-openedin recent weeks and the development of this waterway for other recreationalactivities ongoing, the issues highlighted from the research may assist inproviding further direction in terms of improving this particular waterway.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

5353In terms of the rating of facilities, the waterways generally perform well andimprovements have been noted since the 2004 research. However, anopportunity exists to improve electricity, refuelling facilities and ship chandleryacross all waterways. Although ship chandlery and refuelling are nottraditionally part of Waterways Ireland’s business, perhaps there is some waythe provision of these services could be facilitated.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

5454Appendix A:Copy of Questionnaire10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010Waterway Users 2010FINALWaterway: (5-6)Point: (7-8)I.D. No.Interviewer No.(1-4) (9-12)Ass. No. Qst. No. Ipsos MRBI/10-031982/10(13-16) (17-18) (Blank19-50)Good morning/afternoon/evening. I am ____________ from Ipsos MRBI, the independent market researchagency. We are carrying out a short survey amongst Waterway Users. It will take no more than ten minutesto complete. Would you mind answering a few questions?ASK ALLQ.1 Please can you tell me what activity or activities you are partaking in, or will partake in on thewaterways, as part of this current visit? MULTICODE POSSIBLE. PLEASE SEE INSTRUCTIONSFOR BOATING DEFINITIONS.ASK Q.2 & Q.3 FOR EACH ACTIVITY MENTIONED AT Q.1Q.2 And how experienced are you in this activity, would you say that you are…..? SHOWCARD WITHSCALE. SINGLE CODE FOR EACH APPLICABLE ACTIVITY.Q.3 And please can you tell me how many days per year you spend on the waterways for this activity?RECORD NUMBER OF DAYS FOR EACH APPLICABLE ACTIVITY. IF RESPONDENTIS UNSURE PLEASE PROBE FOR BEST ESTIMATE. USE LEADING ZEROS.(51-71) (72-92) (93-95) – (153-155)Q.3Q.1 Q.2 READ OUT SCALEUsage (Days)VeryLittleExperienced Experienced ExperienceAngling .......................................... 1 1 2 3 4Attending an event ........................ 2 1 2 3 4Boating - Boat Trip ........................ 3 1 2 3 4Boating - Day Boat ........................ 4 1 2 3 4Boating - Hire Cruiser/Barge ......... 5 1 2 3 4Boating - Power boating ................ 6 1 2 3 4Boating - Private Cruiser/Barge .... 7 1 2 3 4Canoe Polo ................................... 8 1 2 3 4Canoeing ....................................... 9 1 2 3 4Cycling ........................................... 1 1 2 3 4Jet Skiing ....................................... 2 1 2 3 4Rowing .......................................... 3 1 2 3 4Sailing ........................................... 4 1 2 3 4Sea Plane ...................................... 5 1 2 3 4Wakeboarding ............................... 6 1 2 3 4Walking .......................................... 7 1 2 3 4Water Skiing .................................. 8 1 2 3 4Windsurfing ................................... 9 1 2 3 4Other 1 (specify_____________) 1 1 2 3 4Other 2 (specify_____________) 2 1 2 3 4Other 3 (specify_____________) 3 1 2 3 4Newto activity e.g. 005(Blank156-200)110-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010ASK ALLQ.3aAre you a member of any of the following associations? MULTICODE.IWAI........................................................................................ 1 (201)HBA ........................................................................................ 2 (202)RCAG ..................................................................................... 3 (203)Other (specify_______________) ......................................... 4 (204) (OtherNone of these ......................................................................... 5 (205) 206-215)Q.3bAnd in the last 12 months how many individual trips or visits have you made to the waterways?RECORD EXACT NO. OF VISITS. IF RESPONDENT IS UNSURE PLEASE PROBE FOR BESTESTIMATE.(216-218)USE LEADING ZEROSE.G 3 visits =003Don’t know………..999Q.4 What motivated you to use the waterways for this current visit?PROBE. PLEASE RECORD AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE IN THE BOX BELOW.(219-238)Q.5 Where did you get information on the waterways?DO NOT READ OUT. PROBE. MULTICODE.Cruise hire company ........................................................................ 1 (239)Friends/relatives, word of mouth ...................................................... 2 (240)I live in the area ................................................................................ 3 (241)Lakelands website ............................................................................ 4 (242)Leaflets/posters ................................................................................ 5 (243)Lock keepers .................................................................................... 6 (244)Newspaper/magazine ..................................................................... 7 (245)Radio/TV .......................................................................................... 8 (246)Regular user of the waterways ........................................................ 9 (247)The internet ...................................................................................... 1 (248)Tour guide ........................................................................................ 2 (249)Tourist guidebook/brochure ............................................................. 3 (250)Tourist office ..................................................................................... 4 (251)Waterways Ireland office .................................................................. 5 (252)Waterways Ireland website .............................................................. 6 (253)Other (specify) ____________________________ ........................ 7 (254) (OtherDon’t know/Can’t recall .................................................................... 9 (255) 256-275)Q.6 How long did you or will you spend on the waterways as part of this current visit? SINGLE CODE.INTERVIEWER NOTE – IF DAYS STATED USE DAYS BOX, WHILE IF WEEKS STATED USEWEEKS BOX. RECORD HALF A DAY OR LESS AS 98 AND DON’T KNOW AS 99.Days OR WeeksUSE LEADING ZEROSE.G 3 days = 03(276-277) (278-279) (Blank280-300)Half a day or less……………97Don’t know……………………99210-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

SECTION 2ROTATESECTION 1ROTATEIpsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010Q.7 Please rate your experience of the < name of waterway as per assignment sheet> overallusing the following scale…?READ OUT SCALE. ROTATE. SINGLE CODE.(301)Very good ......................................................................................... 1Good................................................................................................. 2Fair ................................................................................................... 3Poor .................................................................................................. 4Very poor .......................................................................................... 5Don’t know (DNRO) ......................................................................... 9ASK ALL WHO PROVIDED AN ANSWER AT Q.7 (CODES 1-5)Q.8 And can you tell me why you gave this rating? PROBE. PLEASE RECORD AS MUCHDETAIL AS POSSIBLE IN THE BOX BELOW.(302-321)ASK ALLQ.9 I am now going to read out a list of waterway facilities, please rate each facility using thefollowing scale. SHOWCARD WITH SCALE. ROTATE FACILITIES WITHIN EACH SECTION 1 & 2.SINGLE CODE PER FACILITY. IF THE FACILITY IS NOT AVAILABLE AT PARTICULARWATERWAY OR WAS NOT USED BY THE RESPONDENT PLEASE SELECT N/A.NeitherGoodVerynorVerygood Good poor Poor poor N/AMooring facilities ............................................................ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (322)Winter berthing facilities ............................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (323)Car parking .................................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (324)Pump out facilities ......................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (325)Waterway guidebooks and maps .................................. 1 2 3 6 4 5 (326)Angling facilities ............................................................. 1 2 3 6 4 5 (327)Tow paths ...................................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (328)Electricity ....................................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (329)Boat yards ..................................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (330)Security ........................................................................ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (331)Refuelling facilities ........................................................ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (332)Shops ........................................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (333)Restaurants ................................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (334)Accommodation along the waterways1 2 3 6 4 5 (335)(specify type______________) .....................................Pubs .............................................................................. 1 2 3 6 4 5 (336)Fresh water sources ...................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (337)Ship chandlery ............................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (338)Children’s playgrounds .................................................. 1 2 3 6 4 5 (339)Showers ........................................................................ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (340)Toilets - availability ........................................................ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (341)Toilets - quality .............................................................. 1 2 3 6 4 5 (342)Quality of guidebooks and maps ................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (343)Availability of information about the waterways ............ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (344)Signage for the waterways ............................................ 1 2 3 6 4 5 (345)Suitability for children .................................................... 1 2 3 6 4 5 (346)10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)3 (Other347-366)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010ASK ALLQ.10 And in your opinion, are there any facilities that need to be developed along the waterway?PROBE FULLY. PLEASE RECORD AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE IN THE BOX BELOW .(Blank367-400)(401-420)Q.11 Did you encounter any difficulties accessing the waterways on this current visit?SINGLE CODE.(421)Yes ................................................................................................... 1No ..................................................................................................... 2IF YES ASKQ.12 Please can you tell me what the difficulty was that you encountered?PROBE. PLEASE RECORD AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE IN THE BOX BELOW(422-441)ASK ALLQ.13 Did you encounter any difficulties in sharing the waterways with other users on this current visit?SINGLE CODE.(442)Yes ................................................................................................... 1No ..................................................................................................... 2IF YES ASKQ.14 Please can you tell me what the difficulty was?PROBE. PLEASE RECORD AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE IN THE BOX BELOW(443-462)410-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010ASK ALLI am now going to ask you some questions in relation to your expenditure on the waterway,Q.15a Thinking about the current season, that is from March 2010 to date, how much have you spent onthe following? PLEASE SELECT CODE 1 IF COSTS GIVEN IN EURO AND CODE IF STERLING.INTERVIEWER - PLEASE USE LEADING ZEROS. RECORD THE AMOUNT TO THE NEARESTEURO. IF THE RESPONDENT WILL SPEND NOTHING IN A CATEGORY PLEASE CODE AS00000. IF RESPONDENT SAYS THAT HE/SHE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE EXPENDITUREON THIS TRIP PLEASE ASK HIM/HER TO PROVIDE THEIR BEST ESTIMATE OF THEEXPENDITURE Of THE GROUP.(463-464) (465-466) AMOUNTQ.15a € £Equipment Purchase 1 1 2 (467-471)Boat Hire 2 1 2 (472-476)Q.15b And how much money approximately did you or will you spend on each of the following items, forthis current visit to the waterways? If you are visiting with a group of people please include theexpenditure for the group as a whole. PLEASE SELECT CODE 1 IF COSTS GIVEN IN EURO ANDCODE IF STERLING.INTERVIEWER - PLEASE USE LEADING ZEROS. RECORD THE AMOUNTTO THE NEAREST EURO. IF THE RESPONDENT WILL SPEND NOTHING IN A CATEGORYPLEASE CODE AS 00000. IF RESPONDENT SAYS THAT HE/SHE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FORTHE EXPENDITURE ON THIS TRIP PLEASE ASK HIM/HER TO PROVIDE THEIR BESTESTIMATE OF THE EXPENDITURE Of THE GROUP.(477-490) (491-497) AMOUNTQ.15b € £ (498-503)Fuel................................................................................ 01 1 2 (504-509)Accommodation while using waterways........................ 02 1 2 (510-515)Food while using waterways ......................................... 03 1 2 (516-521)Drink while using waterways(alcoholic and non-alcoholic) .........................................04 1 2 (522-527)Shopping (Food) ............................................................ 05 1 2 (528-533)Shopping (Non-food) (Specify_________________) ... 06 1 2 (534-539)Other (Specify_____________________________) .... 97 1 2 (540-545)Q.16 And please can you tell me how many people this expenditure covers, including yourself?INTERVIEWER: PLEASE RECORD THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE. PLEASE USE LEADING ZEROS(546-547)Refused……………99USE LEADING ZEROSe.g. 1 person = 01e.g. 2 people = 02e.g. 10 people = 10Q.17 Have you heard of Waterways Ireland before now? SINGLE CODE.(548)Yes ................................................................................................... 1No ..................................................................................................... 2IF YES ASK Q.18Q.18 And where did you hear about Waterways Ireland? PLEASE RECORD AS MUCH DETAIL ASPOSSIBLE IN THE BOX BELOW(549-558)10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)5 (Blank559-560)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010ASK ALLQ.20 And can you tell me what you think Waterways Ireland do? MULTICODE. DO NOT PROMPT.Development of the waterways ........................................................ 1 (561)Event organisation ........................................................................... 2 (562)Maintenance of the waterways ........................................................ 3 (563)Management of the waterways ........................................................ 4 (564)Marketing ......................................................................................... 5 (565)Restoration ....................................................................................... 6 (566)Other (specify) ____________________________ ........................ 7 (567) (OtherDon’t know/Can’t recall .................................................................... 9 (568) 569-578)And finally some classification information…..Q.21 In which country do you live? SINGLE CODE.(601-602)Australia ................................................................................. 01Austria .................................................................................... 02Belgium .................................................................................. 03Canada ................................................................................... 04Denmark ................................................................................. 05Finland.................................................................................... 06France .................................................................................... 07Germany ................................................................................ 08Great Britain ........................................................................... 09Greece.................................................................................... 10Italy ......................................................................................... 11Luxembourg ........................................................................... 12New Zealand .......................................................................... 13Northern Ireland ..................................................................... 14 GO TO Q.25Norway ................................................................................... 15Portugal .................................................................................. 16Republic of Ireland ........................................................................... 17Spain ...................................................................................... 18Sweden .................................................................................. 19The Netherlands ..................................................................... 20USA ........................................................................................ 21Other (specify)__________________________ ................... 97(Blank579-600)ASK ALL ROI RESIDENTS (CODE 17 AT Q.21Q.21a In which county do you live?(603-604)Dublin ............... 01 Kildare .............. 09 Meath ............... 17 Wexford .................. 25Carlow .............. 02 Kilkenny ............ 10 Monaghan ........ 18 Wicklow .................. 26Cavan ............... 03 Laois ................. 11 Offaly ................ 19Clare ................. 04 Leitrim ............... 12 Roscommon ..... 20Cork .................. 05 Limerick ............ 13 Sligo ................. 21Donegal ............ 06 Longford ........... 14 Tipperary .......... 22Galway ............. 07 Louth................. 15 Waterford ......... 23Kerry ................. 08 Mayo ................. 16 Westmeath ....... 24610-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010ASK Q.22,23,24 OF ALL OVERSEAS VISITORS (NOT ROI OR NI)Q.22 And how many days will you/did you spend in Ireland on your current trip? SINGLE CODE.INTERVIEWER NOTE – IF DAYS STATED USE DAYS BOX, WHILE IF WEEKS STATED USEWEEKS BOXRECORD DON’T KNOW AS 99Days OR WeeksUSE LEADING ZEROSE.G 3 = 03(605-606) (607-608)Q.23 Did you come to Ireland specifically to experience the waterways? SINGLE CODE.(609)Yes ......................................................................................... 1No ........................................................................................... 2Q.24 And would your experience of the waterways to date encourage you to return to Ireland?SINGLE CODE.(610)Yes ......................................................................................... 1No ........................................................................................... 2Maybe..................................................................................... 3ASK ALLQ.25 What is the primary purpose of your visit to the waterways? READ OUT. ROTATE.SINGLE CODE.(611)Holiday maker ........................................................................ 1Visiting Friends/relatives ........................................................ 2Regular user ........................................................................... 3Local ....................................................................................... 3(OtherOther (specify_____________________) ............................. 7 612-621)Q.26 And which of the following descriptions best fits your party composition on this current trip?SHOWCARD. ROTATE. MULTICODE.Visiting alone ........................................................................... 1 (622) GO TO Q.28Visiting as a couple ................................................................. 2 (623)Visiting with a group of friends ................................................ 3 (624)Visiting as a family with children under 12 .............................. 4 (625)Visiting as a family with children aged 13-18 .......................... 5 (626)Visiting as part of a club .......................................................... 6 (627)Visiting as part of a professional organisation ........................ 7 (628)Employer ................................................................................. 8 (629) (OtherOther (specify___________) .................................................. 9 (630) 631-640)ASK ALL VISITING WITH OTHERS (CODES 2-10) AT Q.26Q.27 Including yourself, how many people are on this trip to the waterways?RECORD EXACT NO. OF PEOPLE. ENSURE RESPONDENT INCLUDES HIMSELF/HERSELF IN THE COUNT.(641-642)Refused………..99710-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010ASK ALLQ.28 Can you please tell me what your first language is? SINGLE CODE.(643)English.................................................................................... 1Irish ......................................................................................... 2German .................................................................................. 3French .................................................................................... 4Sign language ........................................................................ 5Other specify (____________________) .............................. 6Q.29 RECORD GENDER. SINGLE CODE.(654)Male ....................................................................................... 1Female ................................................................................... 2Q.30 Can I ask you which age category you fall into? READ OUT. SINGLE CODE.(Other644-653)(Blank665-666)(667)Under 16 ................................................................................ 1 CLOSE16-24 ...................................................................................... 225-34 ...................................................................................... 335-49 ...................................................................................... 450-64 ...................................................................................... 565-74 ...................................................................................... 675+ ......................................................................................... 7Refused (DNRO) .................................................................... 9Q.31 Are you? READ OUT. SINGLE CODE.(668)Single ..................................................................................... 1Married ................................................................................... 2Co-habiting ............................................................................. 3Widowed ................................................................................ 4Separated ............................................................................... 5Divorced ................................................................................. 6Refused (DNRO).................................................................... 9Q.32 Which of the following best describes your family situation? SHOWCARD. MULTICODE POSSIBLEFOR CODES 2-6.(701)No caring responsibilities ....................................................... 1Caring for children .................................................................. 2Caring for other dependent relatives or persons ................... 3Caring for persons with disability ........................................... 4Separated ............................................................................... 5Other (Specify_______________) ......................................... 6Refused ................................................................................. 9(Blank669-700)(Other702-711)Q.33 What is your religion or belief, if any? SINGLE CODE.(712)Roman Catholic ..................................................................... 1Protestant ............................................................................... 2Other Christian ....................................................................... 3Hindu ...................................................................................... 4Jewish .................................................................................... 5Muslim .................................................................................... 6No religion or belief ................................................................ 7Other (Specify_______________)......................................... 8(OtherRefused .................................................................................. 9 713-722)810-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)

Ipsos MRBI | Waterway Users Research 2010Q.34 Do you consider yourself as having a disability? A person is considered to have a disability if he/shehas a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long term effect on his/her ability tocarry out normal day-to-day activities. READ OUT IN FULL. SINGLE CODE.(723)Yes ........................................................................................ 1No ........................................................................................... 2Q.35 RECORD RACE/ETHNIC ORIGIN SINGLE CODE.(724)White ..................................................................................... 1Black - African ........................................................................ 2Member of the travelling community ...................................... 3Black - Other .......................................................................... 4Asian - Chinese ...................................................................... 5Asian - Other .......................................................................... 6Mixed ethnic group ................................................................. 7Other (Specify_______________)......................................... 8(Other725-734)NAMEADDRESSOCCUPATION CHIEF INCOME EARNER/HOH:(Write in) ______________________________Q.DCSO SOCIAL CLASS SINGLE CODE. USE CSO SOCIAL CLASS CODING.(735)Professional ........................................................................... 1Managerial and technical ....................................................... 2Non-manual ............................................................................ 3Skilled manual ........................................................................ 4Semi-skilled ............................................................................ 5Unskilled ................................................................................. 6Others gainfully employed and unknown ............................... 7TELEPHONE NO.:Landline No. ___________________ Mobile No. _________________________Q.D1DAY OF INTERVIEW(736)Monday........................................................................................ 1Tuesday ...................................................................................... 2Wednesday ................................................................................. 3Thursday ..................................................................................... 4Friday .......................................................................................... 5Saturday ...................................................................................... 6Sunday ........................................................................................ 7Q.D2 TIME (USE 24 HOUR CLOCK):(e.g. 2pm = 14:00) (737-738) (739-740):I certify that I have interviewed the above named respondent in accordance with survey instructions.SIGNEDDATE910-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)