The Welsh Canoeing Association (WCA) are currently lobbying the Welsh
Assembly to introduce legislation which will confirm free access to
the rivers of Wales. The power to introduce such legislation was
transferred from Westminster to Cardiff last July, and we are
currently in a position where Assembly members are seriously looking
at the WCA proposals. If passed, canoeists will enjoy much the same
rights on the rivers in Wales as currently exist in Scotland, and the
pressure will greatly increase on Westminster to follow suit
for English rivers. Getting this legislation passed in Wales
therefore should be a priority for paddlers everywhere.
So how can you help?
Firstly, sign the WCA's petition at
http://petitionthem.com/default.asp?sect=detail&pet=2856. It doesn't
matter whether you live or indeed paddle in Wales or not. It will
take about 30 seconds to complete.
Secondly, forward this email to other canoeists.
Thirdly, talk to non-paddling friends and relatives and ask them to
sign the petition.
The Government of Wales Act (2006) requires the Assembly to act on
petitions received if an issue falls within their powers, so this
petition can make a difference if we get enough people to sign. It
worked in Scotland with the Land Reform Act, there is no reason it
can't work in Wales.
For more information please visit http://www.kayakingisnotacrime.org.uk
Many thanks
The Kayaking is not a Crime Team
