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List of canals in Ireland facts for kids

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This article covers the whole of Ireland, that is, covering both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Ireland is an island with a rich history, and its waterways have played a big part in it! For hundreds of years, people used canals and rivers to move goods and travel across the country. Think of them as old highways made of water. Canals are man-made waterways, while rivers are natural. Together, they helped Ireland grow and connect its towns and cities.

Ireland's Important Canals

Canals are like special water roads built by people. They connect rivers or lakes, making it easier to transport things or travel. In Ireland, canals were very important for moving goods like coal, food, and other materials before trains and trucks became common.

Canals You Can Still Use

Some canals in Ireland are still open and used today, mostly for boats and leisure activities. These are called navigable canals because boats can still travel on them. They are great for exploring Ireland's beautiful countryside by water.

Old Canals: No Longer in Use

Many canals that were once busy are now closed or "derelict." This means they are no longer used for boats. Sometimes, parts of them have been filled in or overgrown. They are still important historical sites, showing us how people lived and worked in the past.

Ireland's Navigable Rivers

Unlike canals, rivers are natural waterways. Many of Ireland's rivers are also "navigable," meaning boats can travel on them. These rivers have always been important for trade, fishing, and connecting communities. They flow through diverse landscapes, from mountains to cities.

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