Dr Matthew Daniels talks Irish Waterways, Tourism, Sustainability, and IWAI

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In this episode, Finbarr chats with Dr Matthew Daniels, and they exchange views on their common enjoyment and passion for spending time on Irish waterways.

Boasting an impressive three-decade career in manufacturing and engineering, Dr Daniels has dedicated fourteen years to fostering industry innovation through partnerships at the University of Limerick and European Union-funded projects.

Beyond his industrial contributions, Dr Daniels has a notable record of imparting knowledge, both in practical settings and academic environments. His research endeavours are focused on integrating advanced technology into Product Lifecycle Management, advocating for a Circular Economy, and fostering Sustainable Innovation among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Dr Daniels is committed to continuous learning and ardently supports the cultivation of entrepreneurial and innovative mindsets.

The episode will also explore the activities and objectives of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI), established in 1954 by a collective of waterway aficionados. The association was initially formed to ensure the navigability of the Shannon for recreational boating, securing its status as a valuable national resource for waterways tourism. Over the years, IWAI's advocacy has expanded to prevent the closure of the Grand Canal in Dublin and to support the enhancement of the Barrow, alongside emphasising the restoration of various other waterways such as the Royal Canal, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, and the River Boyne, to name a few. IWAI represents the interests and perspectives of waterway users and enthusiasts to a range of authorities, including governmental bodies (both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland), the cross-border navigation authority Waterways Ireland, and various statutory and state-sponsored organisations that influence the waterways in diverse ways.

Dr Matthew Daniels was honoured with the 2023 Award for Excellence in Service to the Community, in recognition of his significant contributions towards the promotion, enhancement, and restoration of Ireland's waterways and adjacent areas. Through his leadership positions within the IWAI and as a founding member of the Environmental Special Interest Group, Dr Daniels is dedicated to making the extensive network of Ireland's rivers, lakes, and canals accessible, safe, and enjoyable for the public.

https://www.iwai.ie

This episode is produced by the KBS Digital Hub-Grzegorz Rogala