I and others have commented on WI’s cutting of trees along the banks of the Grand Canal. One aspect that didn’t strike me until today is that, if you didn’t remove waterside trees, you wouldn’t be able to insert new mooring posts.
Above Lock 34
Looking back up from the lock
Close-up of reed-cutting tractor
Below Lock 34
Compared with the old black and white bollards, the new lack a certain je ne sais quoi, but I suppose they could be painted if people paid up.
Irish waterways history 
Plenty of room to plant trees away back from the banks, where the roots won’t destroy the canal and prevent mooring!
At Pikes Bridge on the Royal, the stumps started off like that (spotted about a month ago when passing on the train) – but they have since been painted up and numbered. I can send you photos if you wish.
Thanks, Ewan: a pic or two would be nice. bjg