In 2024, Waterways Ireland incurred nearly €800,000 in expenses for fencing, clean-up, and patrols related to asylum seeker encampments along the Grand Canal in Dublin. Controversies arose over the management of these encampments following the closure of a ‘tented village,’ with concerns about health, safety, and accessibility. Waterways Ireland emphasized the dangers of camping along the canal and the need to maintain public safety and infrastructure.