The RBLNA can trace its roots back to 1962; it came into existence officially in 1964 because of the threat of closure of the River Bann navigation between Toomebridge and Coleraine. The fact that navigation is still possible is due to the efforts of many people, but without the work of the RBLNA it is quite likely that navigation would have ceased years ago. Now the Association has become a branch of the IWAI.

RBLNA's aims are to preserve and promote the amenities of the Bann and Lough Neagh, their tributaries and associated waterways. The Association held many boat rallies over the years; a highly successful revival event was held at Portglenone in 1998. None was held in 1999 but a very well attended rally was held in June 2000 on Lough Neagh and again in August 2001. Michael Savage, one of our members, is writing a pilot book, to be published in 2002.

There has been a substantial increase in the Government's interest in the whole of the Lough Neagh Basin. Officers of the RBLNA serve on the Advisory Committees for the Lower Bann and Lough Neagh. As Waterways Ireland becomes established and interest grows in the possibility of reopening the Ulster Canal, the RBLNA is keen to play its part in the exciting changes that are under way.