Waterway Users 2014 -...

Prepared for: Waterways Ireland By: Amárach Research Ref: S14 251/MMCL/SOS

Waterway Users 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Executive Summary 1.

2.0 Background & Objectives 4.

2.1 Background 4.

2.2 Objectives 4.

2.3 Research Methodology 5.

2.4 Interviewing Breakdown 6.

3.0 2014 Findings 7.

3.1 Demographic Profile Trends 7.

3.2 Country of Origin 10.

3.3 Today’s visit to the Waterway 11.

3.3.1 Information Sources 11.

3.3.2 Purpose of Visit 14.

3.3.3 Activities Undertaken 14.

3.3.4 Association Membership 16.

3.3.5 Party Composition and Size 17.

3.3.6 Duration of Waterways Visit 18.

3.3.7 Rating of the Waterways 19.

3.3.8 Rating of Waterways Ireland Facilities 21.

3.3.9 Waterway Access and Sharing 23.

3.3.10 International Waterway Users 25.

3.3.11 Waterways Expenditure 27.

3.3.12 Waterways Ireland 28.

3.3.13 Equality 30.

4.0 Conclusions

Appendix

The Questionnaire

1.

1.0 Executive Summary

This survey was conducted with a sample of 1,247 recreational waterway

users in October and November 2014.

The 2014 fieldwork took place later in the season than in previous years (the

2014 project was awarded in the last days of August) and is likely to be a

contributing factor for some of the survey changes that have occurred since

the 2010 research.

Demographic Profile

The waterways continue to have widespread appeal with all ages and socio-

economic groupings represented within the 2014 research.

The gender profile of users has become more balanced since the benchmark

survey of 2004 when c. one third of users (32%) were female. This proportion

has increased in the intervening period to stand at just over 4 in 10 female

users (43%) currently.

However, the profile of users appears to be ageing over time. In 2004, one

third (34%) of waterway users was aged 50 years or older. This has risen by

ten percentage points over the past ten years to the point where over 2 in 5

waterway users (44%) are now aged 50+ years.

There is some fluctuation in the country of origin for waterway visitors over the

past two surveys (specifically fewer visitors from Germany from 7% to 1% in

2014) which may be attributed to the timing of the research.

The issue of timing is also likely to have affected overseas guests in their

motivations for visiting Ireland. In 2010, 4 in 10 international visitors (41%)

claimed to visit Ireland specifically to use the Waterways but this level has

reduced to just 1 in 6 (16%) in the current survey.

2.

Information Sources

For the most part, users are aware of the waterways as a consequence of

local knowledge – 45% live in the local area up from 33% in 2010. This

suggests a significant increase in usage by local populations over the past

four years.

Word of mouth from friends and/or relatives remains a key source of

waterways information, mentioned by 3 in 10 users (30%) in 2014 but

showing a decline since 2010 (39%).

Although all other possible information sources are mentioned at considerably

lower levels, Waterways Ireland social media (measured for the first time in

2014) were used by 1 in 14 respondents (7%) with Waterways Ireland website

the Lakelands website and the internet all showing a (possibly correlated)

decline in use.

Purpose of Waterway Visit

3 in 10 survey participants (30%) claim to be regular waterway users.

Although this continues to be the most widely mentioned purpose of visit, it is

at a level considerably lower than 2010 (40%) but may be accounted for, at

least in part, by the increase in local users (from 21% to 26%).

This change in user type (i.e. fewer regular waterway users and more local

users) combined with the survey timing is likely to contribute to the reduced

proportion who claim to use the waterways for recreational activities (from

52% to 37% currently) and the increase in those who claim to be habitual

users (enjoy coming here/visit regularly up from 2% to 14%).

These factors have in turn impacted the type of activity undertaken.

In 2014 we see increased numbers taking part in walking and attending an

event activities but a decrease in the numbers who were using the waterway

for angling and/or private cruiser/barge activities.

3.

Party Composition

The shifting pattern of user and activities undertaken may also explain the

increase in solo users over time – from 33% to 37% currently - and the length

of time spent on the Waterway - 70% spent a half day or less on the waterway

up significantly from the 56% recorded four years ago.

Rating of the Waterways

Happily, users continue to rate the waterways very highly (95% gave a

very/good rating) with some rating variations evident across the seven

navigations.

The rating of specific waterways facilities (such as mooring facilities, car

parking, playgrounds and so on) is also very positive, however, some

attention may need to be given to towpaths, accommodation along the

waterway and fresh water sources each of which was rated less highly in

2014 than in 2010.

Awareness of Waterways Ireland

The proportion of respondents who claim to be aware of Waterways Ireland

shows no real change since 2010 with three quarters (74%) of users recorded

as being aware of the organisation. However, there is increased awareness

of Waterways Ireland’s responsibilities.

The main sources of information for Waterways Ireland echo the more general

waterway information sources – local knowledge (27%) and world of mouth

(17%).

Equality

Give the proportion of users from the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland

and the UK (89%) it’s not surprising that English is the first language for the

vast majority (90%) of users.

One third (35%) of users have a caring responsibility and 1 in 25 (4%) have a

disability of some kind.

4.

2.0 Background & Objectives

2.1 Background

Waterways Ireland is a North/South Implementation body established under

the British Agreement in 1999.

Waterways Ireland is charged with the management, maintenance,

development and restoration of the inland navigable waterways for

recreational purposes. The seven navigations under the remit of Waterways

Ireland are:

The Barrow Navigation

The Erne System

The Grand Canal

The Lower Bann Navigation

The Royal Canal

The Shannon-Erne Waterway

The Shannon Navigation

2.2 Objectives

In 2004 and again in 2010, Waterways Ireland commissioned research to

obtain information on the demographic profile of waterway users, to gather

data on waterway products and to measure awareness of Waterways Ireland

as the management authority of the navigations.

In 2014 Waterways Ireland commissioned Amárach Research to update this

research, maintaining the previous objectives of:

Obtaining a demographic profile of waterway users

Measuring awareness of Waterways Ireland as the waterways

management authority

Obtaining a profile of waterways products used and to identify

emerging niche products

Measuring the market in terms of market share held by different

products

Providing comparisons with historical research data were

appropriate

5.

2.3 Research Methodology

The research was conducted face-to-face with a sample of 1,247 waterways

users, that is those using the waterway in any way for recreation or leisure

purposes.

The activities covered under the definition of recreation/leisure included:

Angling

Attending an event

Boating – boat trip

Boating – day boat

Boating – hire cruiser/barge

Boating – power boating

Boating – private cruiser/barge

Canoe Polo

Canoeing

Cycling

Jet Skiing

Rowing

Sailing

Sea plan

Triathlon (added in 2014)

Wakeboarding

Walking

Water skiing

Windsurfing

Interviewing was confined to users aged 16+ years and took place between

1st October and 31st November 2014 at twenty three sampling points across

the seven waterways.

Each survey participant completed a face-to-face questionnaire (finalised in

agreement with Waterways Ireland) which took 10 minutes on average to

administer and all interviews were undertaken by trained Amárach field

personnel.

6.

2.4 Interviewing Breakdown

The total number of interviews achieved on each navigation and at each

sampling point is illustrated below:

79

158

48

139

186

240

397

Barrow Erne Grand Canal Lower Bann Royal Canal Shannon Erne Shannon

2010 (216) (129) (152) (137) (188) (229) (574)

2010 2014

Barrow Navigation Athy Public Mooring, Kildare 78 18

Graiguenamanagh, Kilkenny 21 20

Carlow Town, Carlow 117 41

Erne System Round O and Bus Depot Moorings, Enniskillen, Fermanagh 63 115

Carrybridge, Fermanagh 25 16

Lusty Beg, Fermanagh 11 14

Castle Archdale, Fermanagh 30 13

Grand Canal Shannon Harbour, Offaly 126 12

Edenderry, Offaly 6 16

Grand Canal Basin, Dublin 20 20

Lower Bann Coleraine Marina, Derry 99 102

Drumaheglis, Antrim 14 9

NewFerry, Derry 24 28

Royal Canal Dublin Bridge – Green Bridge, Mullingar, Westmeath 125 119

Kilcock Harbour, Kildare 41 31

Spencer Dock Dublin City 22 36

Shannon Erne Waterway Leitrim Village, Leitrim 51 58

Keshcarrigan, Leitrim 92 112

Ballinamore, Leitrim 86 70

Shannon Navigation Waterways Ireland jetties, Limerick City 90 109

Dromineer, Tipperary 38 -

Athlone, Westmeath 179 52

Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim 267 222

Terryglass n/a 14

The breakdown of interviews achieved at each point within the seven waterways is as follows:

7.

3.0 2014 Findings

3.1 Demographic Profile Trends

Waterway users are a microcosm of the adult population in terms of gender,

age and occupation. Although the gender of users has become much more

balanced over the past ten years, the age profile of users has become older

over the same period.

There are some variations in the gender profile of each of the navigations

surveyed, with Barrow and Shannon users having the most male profiles.

3241 43

1 3 37 7 9 6 6 8

6859 57

1111 12

30 32 30

1 23

2226

29

62 61 61

5 4 1

3628

28

6 7 7

17 1819

2416 18

13 139

5866 63

Male

Female

16-24

25-34

35-49

50-64

65-74

75+

Married/ living as married

Single

Wid/Sep/ Divorced

RoI

NI

GBGermany

USAOther

Gender Age Marital Status Country of Origin

2010

(1,625)

%

2004

(1,449)

%

2014

(1,247)

%

2010

(1,614)

%

2004

(1,449)

%

2014

(1,239)

%

2010

(1,606)

%

2004

(1,449)

%

2014

(1,239)

%

2010

(1,625)

%

2004

(1,640)

%

2014

(1,247)

%

5763

51 5057

51 48

67

4337

48 5043

49 52

33

Male

Female

Grand Lower Royal Shannon

2014 Barrow Erne Canal Bann Canal Erne Shannon

(1,247) (79) (158) (48)* (139) (186) (240) (397)

% % % % % % % %

Waterway

*Caution small base

8.

In 2014, the Lower Bann and the Shannon exhibit the oldest user profiles

whilst the Barrow and Erne waterway users have the youngest age profiles.

The marital status of users in 2014 in very much in line with that of 2010 and

shows once again that those using the Barrow, Lower Bann and Royal Canal

are more likely than average to be single.

16-24 9 83 -

15 18

7 9

19 25

2322

2024

16 14

28

3238

33

16

28

3026

29

2722

30 33

23

28 34

129

139

145

16 14

3 - 17

1 2 4 4

Waterway



(1,239) (79) (157) (46)* (138) (186) (238) (395)

% % % % % % % %

*Caution small base

25-34

35-49

50-64

65-74

75+

Married/ living as married

61 6066 65

58

48

65 65

30 33 2421 35

46

23 28

9 610

157 6

128

Waterway



(1,239) (78) (157) (48)* (139) (182) (239) (396)

% % % % % % % %

*Caution small base

Single

Widowed/ separated/ divorced

9.

All manner of occupations can be found amongst waterway users though

there have been some changes in the degree to which these occupations are

represented on individual navigations.

In 2014, those using the Shannon Erne Waterway were most likely to be from

a professional background. Conversely, users of the Lower Bann and the

Royal Canal had the greatest proportion of semi/unskilled workers.

10.

3.2 Country of Origin

8 in 10 waterway users were from the island of Ireland, as was the case in

2010.

Overseas visitors came from a wide variety of countries within Europe, North

America and the Antipodes.

The Erne and the Shannon Erne had the largest proportion of international

visitors – 30% and 27% respectively – whilst the Shannon had the fewest

overseas users (9%).

North America

Canada 1%

USA 3%

Northern

Ireland 18%

Republic of

Ireland 63%Great Britain 7%

Rest of World 1%Australia 2%

New Zealand 1%

Europe

France 1%

Germany 1%

Italy 1%

Spain 1%

Austria *

Belgium *

Denmark *

Netherlands *

Portugal *

Sweden *

Luxembourg *

Finland *

Greece *

Norway *

11.

It is perhaps not surprising to see residents of the Republic of Ireland are

most likely to be users of the Barrow, Grand Canal, Royal Canal, Shannon

Erne and the Shannon i.e. waterways located within the twenty-six counties.

Correspondingly, Northern residents are most strongly represented on the

Erne and the Lower Bann – the waterways of Northern Ireland.

3.3 Today’s Visit to the Waterway

3.3.1 Information Sources

Almost half of users (45%) claim to know about the waterway as a

consequence of living locally to the amenity. This was previously recorded at

a level of 33% which suggests there may be greater engagement with the

waterway at a local level since the last survey was conducted.

The second most widely mentioned waterway information source was word of

mouth from friends/family members (30%), showing a decline of 9% since

2010.

Other information sources are used at more modest levels.

45%

30%

13%

10%

9%

7%

4%

4%

4%

3%

2%

2%

2%

1%

1%

1%

*

2010

(1,625)

Live in the Area

Friends/relatives/WOM

Waterways Ireland Website

Internet

Regular User

Waterways Ireland Social Media

Tourist Office

Newspaper/Magazine

Radio/TV

Leaflets/Posters

Cruise Hire Company

Tour guide

Tourist Guide Book

Lakelands Website

Waterways Ireland Office

Lock Keepers

Other

33

39

15

14

16

N/A

7

4

1

5

4

2

9

7

6

4

4

2014

(1,247)

Waterway

Barrow Erne

Grand

Canal

Lower

Bann

Royal

Canal

Shannon

Erne Shannon (79) (158) (48)* (139) (186) (240) (397)

% % % % % % %

34 33 40 50 71 39 43

37 42 27 27 17 32 30

9 4 8 4 3 13 25

14 17 4 13 3 3 13

11 8 10 10 3 13 10

8 3 8 1 - 5 15

- 6 2 6 2 9 3

5 4 4 6 4 1 4

4 4 - 7 5 1 4

- 8 4 6 3 1 2

- 1 2 1 - 1 4

- 4 - 4 1 3 2

- 5 - 8 1 * 2

1 2 2 3 1 - 2

1 1 2 - - 4 1

- 1 4 - - 1 *

1 - - 1 - * **Caution small base

12.

Waterways Ireland Social Media was - included for the first time in 2014 – was

mentioned by as many as 1 in 14 (7%) who claimed to find out about the

waterways through this channel.

It is interesting to see the more traditional web based information sources

(Waterway Ireland website, the Lakelands website and the Internet generally)

are now being used by fewer waterway users.

In 2014, Waterway Users were asked a number of new media questions to

assess their access to technology and media consumption.

Two thirds (65%) of users claim to use the Internet and 4 in 10 (39%) claim to

use social media on a daily basis. A similar proportion of 4 in 10 (37%)

claimed not to use social media at all and this incidence was twice this level

amongst the 50+ age cohort (64%).

Smartphones, laptops, email and Facebook are accessible to a large

proportion of waterway users with just 1 in 8 (13%) claiming not to use any of

the listed technologies and rising to twice this level (27%) amongst the over

50’s.

13.

Given the widespread use of the Internet, it is no surprise to see that websites

are most widely used to obtain information on leisure activities. However,

mainstream media (newspapers, TV and radio) are widely used by the over

50’s (who account for 44% of waterway users).

User Age

U34 35-49 50+

(346) (347) (546)

% % %

71 68 41

25 39 53

29 37 41

25 31 42

16 17 19

19 9 8

13 13 8

7 2 3

1 1 1

57

41

37

34

18

11

11

4

1

Total

(1,247)

Websites (general/unspecified)

Newspapers

TV

Radio

Magazines

Newsletters/Update from clubs

Website of event organiser

Friends/family/WOM

Other

14.

3.3.2 Purpose of Visit

The main motivation to using the waterway is to take part in a recreational

activity (37%) but this incidence shows a considerable decline since the last

study (52%).

This decline may be a factor of the increased use by those living locally (up

from 21% to 26%) in combination with the timing of the 2014 research (late in

the boating season).

As was reported previously, the Barrow, the Lower Bann and the Royal Canal

are most likely to be used for recreational activities.

3.3.3 Activities Undertaken

Walking is the most widely undertaken activity on the waterways and shows

increased participation by users between 2010 and 2014 (from 62% to 67%).

It’s difficult to ascertain if this increase is due to the changes witnessed in the

user profile (more local users) or the survey timing (lower participation in

water based activities) or a reflection of the increased participation in physical

activity as observed by the Irish Sports Council in their 2013 Sports Monitor

Report.

15.

It is evident that some waterways are particularly suited to specific activities

and account for higher than average participation i.e. angling, canoeing and

rowing on the Barrow, walking, cycling and jogging on the Royal Canal.

The frequency of taking part in the most widely pursued activities varies

considerably. Participation in walking and private cruiser/barge pursuits is

most frequent – an average of 97 and 91 days per year respectively

equivalent to participation every 3 to 4 days.

Cycling and angling activities are undertaken roughly once a week based on

the average of 76 and 55 days respectively over the course of a year.

67%

7%

7%

6%

6%

5%

4%

4%

2%

2%

2%

1%

1%

1%

1%

1%

Waterway

Barrow Erne

Grand

Canal

Lower

Bann

Royal

Canal

Shannon

Erne Shannon (79) (158) (48)* (139) (186) (240) (397)

% % % % % % %

54 69 75 69 78 61 67

14 6 4 4 5 5 10

- - 13 - 1 10 14

6 6 - 3 - 4 11

9 8 15 6 14 1 4

1 4 - - 1 1 13

- 1 10 2 - 10 5

18 1 2 3 2 7 2

1 - - 1 - 4 3

- 1 - - - 8 *

6 4 - 2 - 1 1

1 - - 1 1 * 1

- - - - 1 * 2

1 - - - 1 1 1

1 - - 2 2 * -

- - - - 8 * 1

2010

(1,625)

Walking

Angling

Boat Trip

Private Cruiser/Barge

Cycling

Attending an event

Day Boat

Canoeing

Hire Cruiser/Barge

Picnic

Rowing

Jet Skiing

Sailing

Power Boating

Water Skiing

Running/Jogging

62

11

5

15

4

1

5

2

8

5

4

1

1

1

1

N/A

2014

(1,247)

*Caution small base

16.

3.3.4 Association Membership

One in ten (11%) waterway users is a member of a related association with

membership of the IWAI (Inland Waterways Association of Ireland) most

prevalent. This represents a modest decrease since the 2010 survey and

could be correlated to the reduced participation in private cruiser/barge

activities in 2014.

Association membership is highest amongst users of the Erne and Shannon

Erne waterways.

Very

Experienced

New to

Activity Usage

% % Avg. No. Days

Walking 63 1 97

Angling 73 - 55

Boat Trip 28 16 15

Private Cruiser/Barge 79 - 91

Cycling 69 1 76

Attending an event 25 8 12

Day Boat 16 43 20

Canoeing 35 - 35

*Activities less than 2% or

not applicable not shown

17.

3.3.5 Party Composition and Size

Approaching 4 in 10 users (37%) were alone at the time of interview, a decline

of 4% over the past four years. This increase in solo users has resulted in a

reduction in the proportion using the waterways with friends/family but there is

a marginal uplift in those using the waterway as part of a club/group (now at

2%).

The party composition encountered on the individual waterways reflects the

nature of activities undertaken at each location. The Barrow - most likely to

be used for angling/canoeing/rowing - was more likely than average to be

comprised of those visiting with friends or as part of a club/group and has

largest party size, an average 4.04 persons.

Similarly, the Royal Canal, which was most widely used for individual pursuits

(cycling, walking, jogging) was most likely to have solo users and,

correspondingly, has one of the lowest group sizes (see overleaf).

18.

3.3.6 Duration of Waterways Visit

7 in 10 (70%) users spent, or intended to spend, less than half a day on the

waterway. This shows a considerable increase since the 2010 survey when 4

in 10 users (41%) claimed they would be on the waterway for 1 or more days.

The chart above shows that the time spent on each waterway varies from

location to location but the majority of visits that took place in October –

November 2014 did take last longer than a day.

Waterway

2014 Barrow Erne

Grand

Canal

Lower

Bann

Royal

Canal

Shannon

Erne Shannon

(781) (57)* (123) (28)* (73)* (79) (179)* (242)*

% % % % % % % %

2 46 44 46 61 45 51 44 45

3 15 18 24 7 18 28 8 12

4 16 11 18 32 18 14 22 10

5 4 2 7 - 4 1 5 3

6-10 5 4 3 - 11 1 6 6

11-20 2 11 - - - - 5 1

21+ * - - - - 1 1 *

Not Stated 11 12 2 - 4 4 9 23

Mean Score 3.47 4.04 2.98 2.71 3.21 3.00 4.02 3.54

*Caution small base

56

11

7

8

3

8

4

2

70%

15%

3%

3%

*

2%

1%

6%

Half day or less

1 day

2 days

3-4 days

5-6 days

One week

More than 1 week

Not stated

Waterway

Barrow Erne

Grand

Canal

Lower

Bann

Royal

Canal

Shannon

Erne Shannon

(79) (158) (48)* (139) (186) (240) (397)

% % % % % % %

82 68 65 61 91 77 57

10 23 6 25 3 11 18

- 3 13 4 - 4 4

3 1 - 7 - 3 6

- - - - - * 1

- 1 2 - - 3 3

- 1 2 1 - 1 2

5 4 13 1 6 * 10

2010

(1,625)

2014

(1,247)

*Caution small base

19.

3.3.7 Rating of the Waterways

The waterways continue to be very positively rated in 2014 with 95% of users

giving a score ‘Very good’ or ‘Good’ and this positive perception is apparent

across most of the waterways.

Although negative ratings are very modest, specific navigations that may

benefit from short or medium term improvements are the Barrow and the

Royal Canal (two navigations that have above average usage for key

activities).

Overall, the waterways are appreciated for the activities they facilitate. It is

evident that the activity experience in combination with the characteristics of

individual waterways contributed to the ratings achieved in each case.

For example, the Barrow and the Lower Bann are more likely to be positively

rated because they are believed to be well maintained. The Royal Canal and

the Shannon Erne waterways were more likely be given a higher score on the

basis of the relaxed and peaceful ambiance they offer.

*Caution small base

65 62

72

40

68

5966 66

30 37 16

42

2437

3329

3-

3 13

54

131 -

44 1

1 -11

-

4 - 1- -

-1 1 1 2 1- -

1

Very Good

Shannon

(397)

%

Shannon

Erne

(240)

%

Royal

Canal

(186)

%

Lower

Bann

(139)

%

Grand

Canal

(48)*

%

Erne

(158)

%

Barrow

(79)

%

2014

(1,247)

%

Good

FairPoor

Very PoorDon’t know/no reply

20.

The reasons which underpin these positive ratings may provide Waterways

Ireland with the opportunity to target specific markets or tourism sectors for

individual waterways.

Although the proportion of users giving a negative waterway rating is very

modest, the concerns of this cohort provide focus for future resource

allocation and improvements.

Suggested improvements included the installation of (more) seating/picnic

tables/exercise equipment, improved security (during peak demand times and

at night).

It was generally felt amongst this group of users that there wasn’t enough

happening on the waterways at the time of interview and there is scope to

improve the range of available services during the winter months.

13

n/a

24

19

6

9

2

34

14

n/a

2

2

n/a

25%

17%

17%

15%

11%

7%

7%

6%

6%

4%

3%

6%

4%

Waterway

Barrow Erne

Grand

Canal

Lower

Bann

Royal

Canal

Shannon

Erne Shannon

(78) (139) (39)* (128) (178) (237) (376)

% % % % % % %

29 27 3 44 33 12 24

14 24 3 19 16 5 24

17 17 10 13 29 12 16

8 6 10 3 25 28 12

18 11 8 16 8 8 10

- 2 - 2 - 17 10

5 1 18 3 10 16 4

14 9 - 5 7 8 3

8 3 13 7 3 * 10

5 16 - 3 1 4 2

5 6 - 5 1 4 1

5 4 5 5 6 12 4

3 6 3 9 3 2 2

*Responses less than 1% not shown

2010

(1,275)

2014

(1,175)

Activities one can do

Good place to visit

Natural environment

Relaxation/peacefulness

Well kept/maintained

Good weather

Not too crowded

Enjoyed it/good day out

Good facilities

Good for kids/family

Live nearby/convenient

Other

Any negative comment

*Caution small base

21.

3.3.8 Rating of Waterways Ireland Facilities

When asked to rate specific waterway facilities on a five point scale, most of

the areas evaluated were given a ‘Very good’ or ‘Good’ rating maintaining - or

in many cases exceeding - the ratings achieved in 2010.

A small number of facilities secured a lower positive rating and indicate room

for improvement in relation to Tow Paths, Accommodation on the Waterway

and Fresh Water Sources

22.

Given the widespread positivity towards the waterways and waterway

facilities, it is perhaps not surprising to see that one third of users (34%) felt

the waterway did not need any improvements.

Suggested improvements are mentioned at very modest levels and are quite

wide-ranging, providing Waterways Ireland with an array of investment and

development opportunities.


34%

5%

5%

5%

5%

5%

4%

4%

3%

10%

23%

2010

(1,625)

None/Fine as it is

More bins/clean up litter

More seating/picnic tables

More/better pathways/walkways/towpaths

More/better shops/coffee shops

More/better toilets

Improved security/lighting

More facilities for kids/young people

More/better signage

Other

Don’t know

40

9

6

3

3

5

6

N/A

4

N/A

N/A

2014

(1,247)

23.

One in four users (23%) were unable to suggest any potential waterway

enhancements and this level was highest amongst overseas visitors (44%).

3.3.9 Waterway Access and Sharing

A modest 2% of waterway users experienced a problem access the waterway,

in keeping with the 2010 findings and this incidence shows little variation

across the seven navigations.

98 97 99 96 99 100 97 97

2 3 1 41 -

3 3

Waterway

*Caution small base

Shannon

(397)

%

Shannon

Erne

(240)

%

Royal

Canal

(186)

%

Lower

Bann

(139)

%

Grand

Canal

(48)*

%

Erne

(158)

%

Barrow

(79)

%

2014

(1,247)

%

24.

Despite being a problem for a minority of users, those who did experience a

problem cited a range of issues from loose dogs to landscape maintenance.

Whilst for others, their own lack of experience was the cause of the problem –

‘Had a problem getting started – don’t know the rules here’, ‘We all set off

together – someone should have waited for a bit – our own fault’.

Improved signage and pamphlets indicating right of way and/or priority traffic

may help minimise confusion amongst novice users if this is not already

available.

A similarly modest proportion of users experienced difficulty sharing the

waterways generally and across individual waterways.

The nature of sharing problems experienced – albeit based on a handful of

users - were likely to relate to possible improvements (better parking,

somewhere to buy a drink/coffee, more walking routes) though the issue of

speeding boats was a recurring theme.

613

1 2-

2 2

16

9287

98 98 100 98 95

81

2-

1- - 1 3 3

Waterway

*Caution small base

Shannon

(397)

%

Shannon

Erne

(240)

%

Royal

Canal

(186)

%

Lower

Bann

(139)

%

Grand

Canal

(48)*

%

Erne

(158)

%

Barrow

(79)

%

2014

(1,247)

%

Yes

No

Don’t know

25.

3.3.10 International Waterway Users

Just one in six international visitors (16%) claimed to travel to Ireland

specifically to use the waterways. This is considerably lower than was the

case in 2010 when 4 in 10 (41%) overseas visitors were in the country as a

waterway tourist. This decrease is believed to be a direct effect of the

fieldwork timing in 2014.

Interestingly, the further the visitor has travelled to Ireland, the less likely they

are to be visiting the country specifically to use the waterway and this may

provide Waterways Ireland with an opportunity to promote the waterways as a

holiday destination outside of Europe.

In 2010 the research showed that 8 in 10 foreign visitors (79%) would return

to Ireland as a result of their waterway experience. This has halved to 38% in

2014 and is likely to be correlated to the lower incidence of visiting Ireland

specifically to use the waterways.

1120

413

73 58

80

81

1622

16

6

Visiting From …

*Caution Small Base Size

2014

(236)

%

Britain

(83)

%

Europe

(69)*

%

USA

(32)*

%

Yes

No

Don’t know

26.

Whilst the chart above suggests that some waterways are more effective than

others in encouraging a return to Ireland, these findings should be treated with

some caution due to the very small base sizes.

The most recent survey shows international users to be visiting Ireland for a

shorter period although with the majority (68%) having a trip duration of 1

week or longer.

Not surprisingly, those who have travelled the furthest, stay the longest when

visiting Ireland.

38

28

38

5

52

7

40

74

33

33 17 80

22

14

52

1818

33

17

15

13

79

2

-

116

29

-13

- 6 9



(236) (18)* (48)* (20)* (23)* (28)* (65) (34)*

% % % % % % % %

Waterway

*Caution Small Base Size

Yes

No

No reply

Maybe

27.

3.3.11 Waterways Expenditure

Waterway users were asked a series of expenditure questions to assess how

much was spent over the course of the boating season as well as the amount

of money spent on fuel, accommodation, food, drink and shopping during their

visit.

In 2010, 16% of users had purchased equipment spending an average of

€1,732. The incidence of purchase was much lower in 2014 when just 10% of

users bought equipment of any kind and the average amount spent was

somewhat lower, €1,478 on average.

It is likely that this decline in the incidence of purchase and amount spent is

linked back to the shift in activities undertaken on the waterway (i.e. fewer

users taking part in private cruiser/barge related activities from 15% to 6%

currently), which is in turn linked to the timing of the research in 2014.

Similarly, the decreased use of hire cruisers/barges (from 8% to 2%) has

affected the average spend on boat hire which has reduced from €764 to

€210 currently.

When we compare the average expenditure on items purchased during the

waterways visit, we can see again there is a reduction in the amount spent on

accommodation, food, drinks and non-food shopping which may be linked to

the amount of time spent on the waterway (70% spent half a day or less).

Average spend provided is based on those who provided a response for each category.

Total Average Spend

(Per Group)

2010 2014

Equipment Purchase €1,732 €1,478

Boat Hire €764 €210

Boating season defined as March 2014 to time of interview.

28.

Expenditure on food shopping and other items has remained relatively stable

with fuel spend showing the only increase over time (reflecting the wider

economic reality of increased fuel prices between 2010 and 2014).

3.3.12 Waterways Ireland

There is no significant change in awareness of Waterways Ireland with three

quarters of users (74%) claiming to be aware of the organisation.

*Average spend provided is based on those who provided a response for each category.

Total Average Spend

(Per Group)

2010 2014

Fuel €44 €55

Accommodation €392 €207

Food €191 €81

Drinks €79 €42

Shopping (Food) €105 €96

Shopping (Non-Food) €132 €51

Other €81 €80

29.

Awareness levels are lower than average amongst women (32%) and the

youngest age cohort (16 – 24’s). There is also fluctuation in awareness levels

across the waterways with users of the Lower Bann and Erne systems least

likely to be aware of Waterways Ireland.

As was the case with information sources for the waterways generally, users

are aware of Waterways Ireland either because they live/work in the area or

through word of mouth from family and friends.

The internet and word of mouth are the top sources of information for

overseas visitors who are aware of Waterways Ireland.

Although there is no change to the incidence of being aware of Waterways

Ireland, there is greater awareness of the activities and responsibilities of the

organisation – particularly in terms of maintenance and event organisation.

Country of Origin

Total

Republic

Of Ireland

Northern

Ireland Other

(919) (685) (135) (99)

% % % %

Local knowledge 27 28 33 10

Friends/family/WOM 17 15 19 26

Internet 12 9 13 30

Signs 10 12 1 3

Regular user 9 9 10 10

Newspaper 6 7 6 1

TV 6 7 1 1

Radio 6 7 1 -

Waterways Ireland vans/staff 5 6 1 1

Tourist office 3 2 1 11


40%

41%

35%

20%

6%

9%

22%

2%

2010

(1,625)

Aware of

Waterways Ireland

(919)

2014

(1,247)

65%

48%

48%

21%

22%

15%

2%

4%

Maintain the waterways

Manage the waterways

Develop the waterways

Marketing

Event organisation

Restoration

Other

Don’t know

55%

42%

40%

18%

17%

13%

15%

1%

30.

3.3.13 Equality

The first language of users reflects the nationality of those encountered on the

waterways in 2014 with English used almost universally and showing no

change over the past ten years.

English is most widely used on the Lower Bann, a waterways that has one of

the lowest representations of overseas visitors in 2014.

For the most part, those visiting the waterways are in a family situation with no

caring responsibilities (65%) with the balance largely caring for children

(32%).

8681

91

77

96

8591

81

26

1

6

1

1

2

1

2 33

4

-

2

3

1

1 11

-

-

-

1

1

10 9 613

312

3

16



(1,247) (79) (158) (48)* (139) (186) (240) (397)

% % % % % % % %

Waterway

Other languages

include Spanish, Polish,

Italian and Russian

English

GermanFrench

IrishOther

31.

Despite the increasingly older profile, a consistent 1 in 25 users claim to have

a long term physical or mental impairment.

4%

96%

2010

(1,625)

4%

96%

4%

96%

2004

(1,640)

2014

(1,247)

Yes Yes Yes

NoNoNo

32.

4.0 Conclusions

The 2014 findings present a very positive picture for Waterways Ireland:

The waterways generally and the specific facilities delivered by

Waterways Ireland continue to be very highly rated.

Awareness of Waterways Ireland is high and there is increased

awareness of the organisations key responsibilities.

There are few difficulties encountered when accessing/sharing the

waterways

However, the timing of the research is likely to have impacted how the

waterways are experienced by users:

Lower participation in core waterway activities (angling, private

cruiser/barge, hire cruiser/barge)

Increased use of the waterways for walking and attending an event

More solo use of the waterways (37% visiting alone)

Waterways are being used for shorter periods (70% used for half a day

or less)

Reduced boating/equipment expenditure

Reduced spend on visit related items (food, drink, accommodation,

non-food shopping)

Any proposed changes to the waterways infrastructure need to take into

account:

The changing profile of users (more female, older)

The unique features of individual navigations (including the

activities undertaken)

The year round availability/quality of facilities (coffee shops, walking

routes etc.)

Similarly, events and communications activities should be cognisant of:

The user profile (more female, older)

Out of season activities/events

33.

Targeted use of media channels (social media vs traditional

information sources)

Novice boat users (speeding, signage, enforcement etc.)

The waterways are a treasured resource which users benefit from on a

number of levels – the physical benefits of engaging in physical activity,

the camaraderie generated by group pursuits, the calming/soothing effect

of water and access to a natural environment.

Waterways Ireland performs strongly in its management role and keeping

pace with the evolving use of the waterways will ensure continued success

in this arena.

34.

Amárach Research, 11 Kingswood Business Centre, Kingswood Road, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24

APPENDIX

35.

Waterway Users

Final Questionnaire 1st October 2014

Good morning/afternoon/evening. I am ____________ from Amárach Research, the independent market research agency. We are carrying out a short survey amongst Waterway Users that will take about ten minutes to complete.

ASK ALL AGED 16+ YEARS T1 INTERVIEW START TIME (USE 24 HOUR CLOCK e.g. 2pm = 1400 Q1 What activity or activities you have taken part in today or will you take part in as part of today’s visit

to the waterway? CODE ALL THAT APPLY. REFER TO YOUR INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTIONS FOR BOATING DEFINITIONS.

ASK FOR EACH ACTIVITY MENTIONED AT Q1 SHOWCARD Q2 And how experienced are you in <activity coded at Q1>, would you say you are…..? REPEAT FOR

EACH ACTIVITY. SINGLE CODE. Q3 And how many days do you spend on the waterways doing this activity per year? RECORD

NUMBER OF DAYS FOR EACH ACTIVITY AT Q1. IF LESS THAN 1 DAY, RECORD AS 998. IF THE RESPONDENT IS UNSURE, PROBE FOR BEST ESTIMATE.

Q1

Q2 Experience

Q3 Days Per Year

Very Experienced Experienced

Little Experience

New to activity e.g.005

Angling ………………………….… 1 1 2 3 4

Attending an event……………….. 2 1 2 3 4

Boating - Boat Trip………………. 3 1 2 3 4

Boating - Day Boat………………. 4 1 2 3 4

Boating - Hire cruiser/barge……. 5 1 2 3 4

Boating - Power boating .............. 6 1 2 3 4

Boating - Private Cruiser/Barge… 7 1 2 3 4

Canoe Polo……………………….. 8 1 2 3 4

Canoeing …………………………. 9 1 2 3 4

Cycling…………………………….. 10 1 2 3 4

Jet Skiing...................................... 11 1 2 3 4

Rowing ......................................... 12 1 2 3 4

Sailing .......................................... 13 1 2 3 4

Sea Plane .................................... 14 1 2 3 4

Triathlon 15 1 2 3 4

Wakeboarding ............................. 16 1 2 3 4

Walking ........................................ 17 1 2 3 4

Water Skiing ................................ 18 1 2 3 4

Windsurfing .................................. 19 1 2 3 4

Other 1 (specify_____________) 20 1 2 3 4

Other 2 (specify_____________) 21 1 2 3 4

Other 3 (specify_____________) 22 1 2 3 4

36.

ASK ALL Q3a Are you a member of any of the following associations? READ OUT. MULTICODING ALLOWED

IWAI/Inland Waterways Association of Ireland .................................................................. 1 HBA/Heritage Boat Association ......................................................................................... 2 RCAG/Royal Canal Amenity Group ................................................................................... 3 Other (Please specify_______________________) ......................................................... 4 None of these (Do not read out) ....................................................................................... 5

Q3b How many individual trips or visits have you made to the waterways in the last 12 months?

RECORD NUMBER OF VISITS. IF TODAY IS THE ONLY VISIT IN THE PST 12 MONTHS CODE AS 998. IF THE RESPONDENT IS UNSURE, PROBE FOR BEST ESTIMATE.

Don’t know………..999 Q4 What motivated you to use this waterway for today’s visit? PROBE FOR AS MUCH DETAIL AS

POSSIBLE AND RECORD IN THE BOX BELOW.

Q5a Where did you get information on the waterways? DO NOT READ OUT. MULTICODING

ALLOWED. Cruise hire company ..................................................................................................... 1 Friends/relatives, word of mouth ................................................................................... 2

I live in the area ............................................................................................................. 3

Lakelands website......................................................................................................... 4 Leaflets/posters ............................................................................................................. 5 Waterways Ireland lock keepers ................................................................................... 6 Other Waterways Ireland staff ...................................................................................... 7 Newspapers/magazines ................................................................................................ 8 Radio/TV ....................................................................................................................... 9 Regular user of the waterways .................................................................................... 10 The internet .................................................................................................................. 11 Tour guide .................................................................................................................... 12 Tourist guidebook/brochure ......................................................................................... 13 Tourist office ................................................................................................................. 14 Waterways Ireland office .............................................................................................. 15 Waterways Ireland website .......................................................................................... 16 Waterways Ireland Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube) ................................ 17 Other (specify_______________) ............................................................................... 18

Don’t know/Can’t recall .............................................................................................................. 19

USE LEADING ZEROS E.G. 3 visits = 003

37.

ASK ALL WHO HAVE USED WATERWAYS IRELAND’S WEBSITE (CODE 16 AT Q5A): OTHERS GO TO Q5C. Q5b And what type of information did you look for or access on the Waterways Ireland website? DO

NOT PROMPT. CODE ALL THAT APPLY.

Search for an event/event listings ................................................................................. 1 Search for a waterway activity ...................................................................................... 2 Access or complete an online application form ............................................................ 3 Report a navigation problem ......................................................................................... 4 Make an online purchase/buy a smart card .................................................................. 5 Make a complaint .......................................................................................................... 6 Post a compliment......................................................................................................... 7 Other (Please specify _________________) ............................................................... 8 ASK ALL WHO HAVE USED WATERWAYS IRELAND’S SOCIAL MEDIA (CODE 17 AT Q5A): OTHERS GO TO Q6 Q5c And what type of information did you look for or access on Waterways Ireland’s social media? DO

NOT PROMPT. CODE ALL THAT APPLY.

Search for an event/event listings ................................................................................. 1 Search for a waterway activity ...................................................................................... 2 Access of complete an online application form ............................................................. 3 Report a navigation problem ........................................................................................ 4 Make an online purchase/buy a smart card .................................................................. 5 Make a complaint .......................................................................................................... 6 Post a compliment......................................................................................................... 7 Other (Please specify _________________) ............................................................... 8 ASK ALL Q6 How long did you or will you spend on the waterways as part of today’s visit? RECORD NUMBER

OF DAYS/WEEKS AS APPROPRIATE. RECORD HALF A DAY OR LESS AS 98 AND DON’T KNOW AS 99.

Days OR Weeks

Half a day or less………….…97 Don’t know……………………99

Q7 Please rate your experience of the < name of waterway > using the following scale…? READ OUT

SCALE. ROTATE. SINGLE CODE. Very good ........................................................................................................................... 1 Good ................................................................................................................................... 2 Fair ..................................................................................................................................... 3 Poor .................................................................................................................................... 4 Very poor ............................................................................................................................ 5 Don’t know (DNRO)............................................................................................................ 9

USE LEADING ZEROS E.G. 3 days = 03

38.

ASK ALL WHO GAVE A RATING AT Q7 (CODES 1-5): OTHERS GO TO Q9 Q8 And why did you give this rating? PROBE FOR AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE AND RECORD IN THE BOX BELOW

ASK ALL SHOWCARD Q9 Can you please rate the following waterway facilities using the scale on this card? ROTATE

FACILITIES WITHIN SECTION 1 & 2. SINGLE CODE EACH FACILITY. IF THE FACILITY IS NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS WATERWAY OR WAS NOT USED BY THE RESPONDENT SELECT N/A.

Very Good

Good

Neither Good

nor Poor

Poor

Very Poor

N/A

S

EC

TIO

N 1

R

OT

AT

E

Mooring facilities………………………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Winter berthing facilities………………………..... 1 2 3 6 4 5

Car parking………………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Pump out facilities………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Waterway guidebooks and maps……………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Angling facilities…………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Tow paths………………………………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Electricity………………………………..………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

S

EC

TIO

N 2

RO

TA

TE

Boat yards…………………………………………. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Security…………………………………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Refuelling facilities………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Shops………………………………………………. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Restaurants………………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Accommodation along the waterways (specify type ______________________)……..

1 2 3 6 4 5

Pubs………………………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Fresh water sources…………………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Ship chandlery…………………………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Children’s playgrounds…………………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Showers…………………………………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Toilets – availability……………………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Toilets – quality……………………………………. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Quality of guidebooks and maps………………… 1 2 3 6 4 5

Availability of information about the waterways.. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Signage for the waterways……………………….. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Suitability for children………………………………. 1 2 3 6 4 5

Long distance walking/cycle paths 1 2 3 6 4 5

Canoe Trails 1 2 3 6 4 5

Smart Cards 1 2 3 6 4 5

39.

ASK ALL Q10 Are there any facilities that you feel need to be developed along the waterway? PROBE FOR AS

MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE AND RECORD IN THE BOX BELOW

Q11 Did you have any problems or difficulties accessing the waterways during today’s visit? SINGLE CODE.

Yes ........................................................................................................................ 1 No .......................................................................................................................... 2 ASK ALL WHO HAD A PROBLEM ACCESS THE WATERWAYS (CODE 1 AT Q11): OTHERS GO TO Q13 Q12 What the nature of the problem or difficulty you experienced accessing the waterways today?

PROBE FOR AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE AND RECORD IN THE BOX BELOW

ASK ALL Q13 Did you experience any problems or difficulties sharing this waterway with other users today? SINGLE CODE. Yes ........................................................................................................................ 1 No .......................................................................................................................... 2

ASK ALL WHO HAD A PROBLEM SHARING THE WATERWAYS (CODE 1 AT Q13): OTHERS GO TO Q15 Q14 What the nature of the problem or difficulty you experienced sharing the waterways with other users

today? PROBE FOR AS MUCH DETAIL AS POSSIBLE AND RECORD IN THE BOX BELOW

40.

ASK ALL The following questions are about the amount of money spent on the waterway. Q15a How much have you spent on the following between March 2014 and today? INTERVIEWER: PLEASE SELECT THE CORRECT CURRENCY CODE BEFORE RECORDING THE AMOUNT.

RECORD THE AMOUNT TO THE NEAREST EURO/POUND. RECORD NOTHING AS ‘00000’

IF THE RESPONDENT WAS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS EXPENDITURE, PROBE FOR A

BEST ESTIMATE OF THE EXPENDITURE OF THE GROUP.

Q15b And roughly how much will you have spent on each of the following items after this visit to the

waterways? If visiting as part of a group, please provide the amount spent by all members of your

group. PLEASE SELECT THE CORRECT CURRENCY CODE BEFORE RECORDING THE AMOUNT.

RECORD THE AMOUNT TO THE NEAREST EURO/POUND. RECORD NOTHING AS ‘00000’

IF THE RESPONDENT WAS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS EXPENDITURE, PROBE FOR A

BEST ESTIMATE OF THE EXPENDITURE OF THE GROUP. AMOUNT Q15b € £

Fuel ………………………………………………………….. 01 1 2

Accommodation while using waterways……………………. 02 1 2

Food while using waterways………………………………. 03 1 2

Drink while using waterways (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)………………………………

04 1 2

Shopping (Food)……………………………………………. 05 1 2

Shopping (Non-food) (Specify___________________)… 06 1 2

Other (Specify_______________________________)…. 97 1 2

Q16 How many people does this expenditure cover including yourself? INTERVIEWER: PLEASE RECORD THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE USING LEADING ZEROS

Refused……….…..99

AMOUNT

Q15a € £

Equipment Purchase 1 1 2

Boat Hire 2 1 2

USE LEADING ZEROS e.g. 1 person = 01 e.g. 2 people = 02 e.g. 10 people = 10

41.

Q17 Have you heard of Waterways Ireland before today? SINGLE CODE. Yes ........................................................................................................................ 1 No .......................................................................................................................... 2 ASK ALL AWARE OF WATERWAYS IRELAND (CODE 1 AT Q17): OTHERS GO TO Q20

Q18 Where or how did you hear about Waterways Ireland? PROBE FOR AS MUCH DETAIL AS

POSSIBLE AND RECORD IN THE BOX BELOW

There is no Q19 ASK ALL Q20a What do you think Waterways Ireland do? DO NOT PROMPT. CODE ALL THAT APPLY. Develop the waterways ...................................................................................................... 1 Event organisation.............................................................................................................. 2 Maintain the waterways ...................................................................................................... 3 Manage the waterways ...................................................................................................... 4 Marketing ............................................................................................................................ 5 Restoration ......................................................................................................................... 6 Other (specify) .................................................................................................................... 7 Don’t know/Can’t recall ...................................................................................................... 9 ASK ALL AWARE OF WATERWAYS IRELAND’S ACTIVITIES (CODE 1-6 AT Q20A): OTHERS GO TO Q21 Q20b Do you think the activities undertaken by Waterways Ireland have enhanced your experience of this waterway today? DO NOT PROMPT. CODE ALL THAT APPLY.

Yes ..................................................................................................................................... 1 No ....................................................................................................................................... 2 Don’t know/not sure ........................................................................................................... 3

42.

My last few questions are for classification purposes … ASK ALL Q21 What country do you live in? SINGLE CODE

Australia ............................................................................................................................ 01

Austria ............................................................................................................................... 02 Belgium……………………………………………………………………… ............................ 03 Canada .............................................................................................................................. 04 Denmark ............................................................................................................................ 05 Finland ............................................................................................................................... 06 France ............................................................................................................................... 07 Germany ............................................................................................................................ 08 Great Britain ...................................................................................................................... 09 Greece ............................................................................................................................... 10 Italy .................................................................................................................................... 11 Luxembourg ...................................................................................................................... 12 New Zealand ..................................................................................................................... 13 Northern Ireland ................................................................................................................ 14 GO TO Q25 Norway .............................................................................................................................. 15 Portuga .............................................................................................................................. 16 Republic of Ireland ............................................................................................................ 17 GO TO Q21a Spain ................................................................................................................................. 18 Sweden ............................................................................................................................. 19 The Netherlands ................................................................................................................ 20 USA ................................................................................................................................... 21 Other (specify) ________________________________ ................................................ 97 ASK ALL ROI RESIDENTS (CODE 17 AT Q21): OTHERS GO TO Q22 Q21a What county do you live in?

Dublin…………….. 01 Kildare………… 09 Meath…………….. 17 Wexford………… 25

Carlow……………. 02 Kilkenny……….. 10 Monaghan………… 18 Wicklow………… 26

Cavan…………….. 03 Laois………….. 11 Offaly……………… 19

Clare……………… 04 Leitrim…………. 12 Roscommon……… 20

Cork………………. 05 Limerick………. 13 Sligo………………. 21

Donegal…………… 06 Longford………. 14 Tipperary…………. 22

Galway……………. 07 Louth………….. 15 Waterford…………. 23

Kerry……………… 08 Mayo………….. 16 Westmeath……….. 24

43.

ASK ALL OVERSEAS VISITORS (NOT CODE 14 OR 17 AT Q21): OTHERS GO TO Q25 Q22 And how many days will you/did you spend in Ireland on this visit? RECORD NUMBER OF

DAYS/WEEKS AS APPROPRIATE. RECORD DON’T KNOW AS 99. Days OR Weeks

Q23 Do you come to Ireland specifically to experience the waterways? SINGLE CODE.

Yes ........................................................................................................................ 1 No .......................................................................................................................... 2 Q24 Has your experience of the waterways encouraged you to return to Ireland? SINGLE CODE. Yes ........................................................................................................................ 1 No .......................................................................................................................... 2 Maybe .................................................................................................................... 3 ASK ALL Q25 Would you say your visit to the waterways today was as a ….? READ OUT. ROTATE. SINGLE

CODE.

Holiday maker ....................................................................................................... 1 Visiting Friends/relatives ....................................................................................... 2 Regular user .......................................................................................................... 3 Local ...................................................................................................................... 4 Other (Specify ______________________) ........................................................ 5 SHOWCARD Q26 And which of the descriptions on this card best describes the composition of your group’s visit to the

waterways today? CODE ALL THAT APPLY

Visiting alone ......................................................................................................... 1 GO TO Q 28 Visiting with husband/partner ................................................................................ 2 Visiting with friends ................................................................................................ 3 Visiting as a family with children under 12 ............................................................ 4 Visiting as a family with children aged 13-18 ........................................................ 5 Visiting as part of a club ........................................................................................ 6 Visiting as part of a professional organisation ....................................................... 7

Employer/work outing ............................................................................................ 8 Other (Specify ______________________) ........................................................ 9

ASK ALL VISITING WITH OTHERS (CODES 2-10 AT Q26): OTHERS GO TO Q28 Q27 Including yourself, how many people are in your group on this trip to the waterways?

ENSURE RESPONDENT INCLUDES HIMSELF/HERSELF IN THE COUNT

Refused……….…..99

USE LEADING ZEROS E.G. 3 = 03

44.

ASK ALL Q28 What is your first language? SINGLE CODE.

English ................................................................................................................... 1 Irish ........................................................................................................................ 2 German .................................................................................................................. 3 French ................................................................................................................... 4 Sign language ....................................................................................................... 5 Other (Specify ______________________) ........................................................ 6

Q29 RECORD GENDER. SINGLE CODE. Male ....................................................................................................................... 1 Female ................................................................................................................... 2 Q30 Which one of the following age bands do you fall into? READ OUT. SINGLE CODE. 16-24 ..................................................................................................................... 1 25-34 ..................................................................................................................... 2 35-49 ..................................................................................................................... 3 50-64 ..................................................................................................................... 4 65-74 ..................................................................................................................... 5 75+......................................................................................................................... 6 Refused (DNRO) ................................................................................................... 7 Q31 Are you? READ OUT. SINGLE CODE.

Single ..................................................................................................................... 1 Married .................................................................................................................. 2 Co-habiting ............................................................................................................ 3 Widowed ................................................................................................................ 4 Separated .............................................................................................................. 5 Divorced ................................................................................................................ 6 Refused (DNRO) ................................................................................................... 9

SHOWCARD Q32 Which of the following best describes your family situation? MULTICODES POSSIBLE FOR

CODES 2-6.

No caring responsibilities 1 Caring for children ................................................................................................. 2 Caring for other dependent relatives or persons ................................................... 3 Caring for persons with disability .......................................................................... 4 Separated .............................................................................................................. 5 Other (Specify_________________) .................................................................... 6 Refused ................................................................................................................. 9 Q33 What is your religion or belief, if any? SINGLE CODE.

Roman Catholic ..................................................................................................... 1 Protestant .............................................................................................................. 2 Other Christian ...................................................................................................... 3 Hindu ..................................................................................................................... 4 Jewish .................................................................................................................... 5 Muslim ................................................................................................................... 6 No religion or belief ............................................................................................... 7 Other (Specify_________________) .................................................................... 8 Refused ................................................................................................................. 9

45.

Q34 Do you have a disability, by that I mean a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and

long term effect on your ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. SINGLE CODE.

Yes ........................................................................................................................ 1 No .......................................................................................................................... 2

Q35 RECORD RACE/ETHNIC ORIGIN SINGLE CODE.

White ..................................................................................................................... 1 Black – African ...................................................................................................... 2 Member of the travelling community ..................................................................... 3 Black – other.......................................................................................................... 4 Asian – Chinese .................................................................................................... 5 Asian – Other ........................................................................................................ 6 Mixed ethnic group ................................................................................................ 7 Other (Specify_________________) .................................................................... 8

Q36 How often do you use the Internet? SINGLE CODE Q37 And how often do you use social media such as Facebook, Twitter or YouTube? SINGLE CODE

Q36 USE

INTERNET

Q37 USE SOCIAL

MEDIA

At least once a day 1 1

Every 2-3 days 2 2

Once a week 3 3

Less often 4 4

Varies – every now & then 5 5

Do not use 6 6

Q38 Which if any of the following items do you personally use? READ OUT. CODE ALL THAT APPLY.

Smartphone 1

Tablet/iPad 2

Mini Tablet/iPad mini 3

Laptop/Notebook 4

Email 5

Twitter 6

Facebook 7

None of these 8

SHOWCARD Q39 Which if any of these sources do you use to get information on leisure or recreational activities? CODE ALL THAT APPLY.

TV 1

Radio 2

Newspapers 3

Magazines 4

Website (general/unspecified) 5

Website of event organiser 6

Newsletters/updates from sports club 7

Other (Please specify ____________________) 8

46.

NAME: ________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________ OCCUPATION CHIEF INCOME EARNER (Write in) ________________________________________________________________ QD CSO SOCIAL CLASS SINGLE CODE. USE CSO SOCIAL CLASS CODING.

Professional ........................................................................................................... 1 Managerial and technical ...................................................................................... 2 Non-manual ........................................................................................................... 3 Skilled manual ....................................................................................................... 4 Semi-skilled ........................................................................................................... 5 Unskilled ................................................................................................................ 6 Others gainfully employed and known .................................................................. 7 TELEPHONE NO.: Landline No. ____________________ Mobile No. _______________________ QD1 DAY OF INTERVIEW Monday .................................................................................................................. 1 Tuesday ................................................................................................................. 2 Wednesday............................................................................................................ 3 Thursday ................................................................................................................ 4 Friday ..................................................................................................................... 5 Saturday ................................................................................................................ 6 Sunday .................................................................................................................. 7 T1 INTERVIEW END TIME (USE 24 HOUR CLOCK e.g. 2pm = 1400

HOUR MINUTE

:

I certify that I have interviewed the above named respondent in accordance with survey instructions. SIGNED: ________________________________ DATE: _________________________________

Waterway Users 2014 -...

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