456. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on the development of an executive management board to direct Waterways Ireland, as recommended in 2021 (details supplied); the timeframe for the establishment of such a board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47414/26]

Waterways Ireland is North-South Body under the British-Irish Agreement Act, 1999, and as such was established without a Board. The functions of the Agency are exercised by a Chief Executive under the direction of the North South Ministerial Council.

In 2021, the North South Ministerial Council agreed that officials from the sponsor departments, in consultation with the Joint Secretariat of the NSMC would explore options for the establishment of a Board to oversee the work of Waterways Ireland. This matter remains under consideration, with a view to bringing proposals to a future meeting of the Council.