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A new project exploring the engineering history of the Newry Canal is looking to recruit between 20 and 30 local participants, with places open to anyone with an interest in local history, engineering or photography.
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The project, which is supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), is being delivered in partnership with the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and Newry and Mourne Museum.
Participants will take part in hands-on research exploring the canal's historic features, including locks, bridges and basins. The programme also includes practical training in historical research, heritage photography and digital curation, as well as two guided site visits along the waterway led by local experts. Work produced by participants will form part of a permanent digital archive on the Newry, Mourne and Down Museum website.
The programme runs across six sessions, totalling 18 hours, and takes place between January and August 2026. All transport and refreshments are fully funded, and those who complete the programme will receive a free annual membership to the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland.
The project is open to participants from all parts of the community, with a particular welcome extended to women and young adults aged 18 and over, minority ethnic and newcomer communities, and those from both CNR (Catholic, Nationalist, Republican) and PUL (Protestant, Unionist, Loyalist) backgrounds.
Those interested in taking part can contact Project Facilitator Paul O'Neill by email at phoneill@yahoo.com or by phone on 078 4320 9961. When making contact, participants should quote "Newry Canal Our Engineering Heritage" as their choice.
