Following Welsh Government confirmation of the relaxation of restrictions to Alert Level 2 the Back to Boating Protocol Document has been updated to reflect these changes.
Following Welsh Government confirmation of the relaxation of travelling restrictions which takes effect today, Monday 6th July, the Back to Boating Protocol Document has been updated to reflect these changes. Further relaxations and changes are expected later this week, and our document will be edited to reflect this. An updated Notice to Mariners is expected this week from the Gwynedd Maritime office, and will be posted on the website, and links from our task force documents updated
Welsh Government issued a Statement on Friday 29th May which in brief allows boating as a form of exercise, from Monday 1st June, subject to complying with current regulations. – see here
RYA Cymru Wales , the governing body for boating in Wales, published a Statement on Friday 29th May confirming the steps needed for our safe return to boating – see here
We believe that individuals as members of CHPSC who have dinghies in the Plas Heli compound can use their dinghies by launching on the Glan Don beach.
The Joint Task Group has worked through a risk assessment for this activity and has developed a ‘protocol’. This protocol was approved by the Joint Task Group on 31st May and is to be effective for Monday 1st June.
The Joint Task Group has also considered the use of the Plas Heli pontoons, assessed the risk and developed a ‘protocol’. This protocol was approved by the Joint Task Group on 31st May and is to be effective for Monday 1st June but is subject to the limitations imposed by the current Notice to Mariners dated 6th April which prohibits boat movements in the harbour. See here.
The Task Force considered it prudent and in-line with the advice given by RYA Cymru Wales to be prepared in readiness for the relaxation of restrictions.
It is hoped that Gwynedd Council, as the harbour authority, will follow the lead of many other Harbour Authorities by allowing boat movements in the harbour from Monday 1st June. This would, of course, be subject to all the regulations set out by Welsh Government.
The work of the Task Force is to ensure that our return to boating is achieved as soon as possible, in a safe, considerate, and responsible manner.
The following is a statement by Gerwyn Owen CEO RYA Cymru Wales
"Dear boater
Following the announcement by the First Minister in relation to the next phase of lockdown here in Wales, RYA Cymru Wales would like to highlight the changes coming into effect as of Monday 1st of June, 2020. The increased ability to enjoy outdoor activity will be welcomed by the boating community, and means that those with direct access to their boats may use them with members of their household, within five miles of their home.
Restrictions remain on some activities, and access to waters via outdoor sports facilities will not be reviewed until June 18th. All boaters are urged to check with their local facility and obtain appropriate permissions to launch from the relevant authority.
We will continue to follow Welsh Government guidance and take a considerate and responsible approach to the return of boating in Wales. It is essential that boaters follow guidance on social distancing and hygiene carefully, and comply with guidance on interaction with other households. Equally important is the imperative to boat safely, well within the levels of your ability, and avoid placing unnecessary strain on the RNLI and emergency services
We are seeking further clarification from Welsh Government and key stakeholders on certain areas of restrictions, specifically around outdoor venues, tourist spots and access to facilities. The position statement from RYA Cymru Wales will be updated and shared with members, clubs and centres in the coming days.
Keep safe, keep well, keep smiling
Gerwyn Owen
Chief Executive Officer / Prif Weithredwr"
Your Flag Officers recently attended a “Zoom" conference held by our governing body, RYA Cymru Wales, to discuss plans to get us back on the water.
The RYA Cymru Wales - 'Return to Boating in Wales' document is available here
The 'Joint Task Force - Back to Boating ' document is available here
You will all be aware of the current restrictions, but it is now important that we start to plan ahead as we approach a date when a phased easing of restrictions that currently impact our club activities take place, so we can develop strategies, carry out risk assessments, and find solutions for us to recommence as many club activities as we can in a safe manner, considering best advice from Welsh Government, and RYA Cymru Wales.
Very shortly a newsletter will be sent out, inviting representatives from all sections of the club to join our “Back To Boating Task Force”
It is hoped that we can hold an initial meeting via “Zoom” as soon as possible, to brainstorm ideas, discuss actions and confirm potential procedures that we must have in place for a safe and considerate return to our club activities.
Any member wishing to help us with this vital project, please email your Flag Officers
Update Monday 25th May - Vice Commodore Gerallt Williams received a great response to Saturday's newsletter, and has formed a team of 15 members, representing all areas of the club. The first meeting is scheduled via "Zoom" on Tuesday evening to discuss the project going forward, and consider the planning documents from RYA Cymru Wales, relevant to our club.