Relax and do a good deed!

The Muiriosa Foundation is offering relaxing canal trips to members of the public, which will support the organisation as well providing those taking the trip with three hours of quality relaxation.

The Muiriosa Foundation provides a range of services and supports to people with an intellectual disability and their families in Offaly, Laois, Westmeath, Kildare, Meath and Longford.

Twelve years ago it took charge of a 59ft fully accessible barge - Saoirse ar an Uisce. That barge operates out of Tullamore Harbour, and has in the past decade provided a variety of people - including those in the care of the Muiriosa Foundation - with the opportunity to experience life on the canal.

Now that opportunity is being extended to all members of the public, for occasions ranging from Holy Communion celebrations to birthday parties and everything in between.

While the new service won’t make the Muiriosa Foundation any money, barge manager Michael O’Hanlon says it will allow two crew members who are cared for by the Foundation even more time on the water, will increase employment opportunities on the boat and in the connected shop in Monasterevin and will increase awareness of what the Muiriosa Foundation does.

Typically canal trips on Saoirse ar an Uisce last for three hours and cost €12.50 per head with twelve people on board. “It’s very therapeutic,” Michael says.

Two sailings take place each day, with sailings offered every day of the week at 11am and 2pm from Tullamore Harbour.

More information is available at www.kildare.ie/freedomonthewater, while bookings can be made by calling 086 1064051.