SC(3) - AIW06

Sustainability Committee

Inquiry into access to inland water in Wales

I would just like to put my point of view forward for the committee.
I am both a land owner with river access on the Dysynni, Merionyth, and a recreational user and canoeist. I am a member of the Welsh Canoe Association and the Association for Heads of Outdoor Education Centres AHOEC.
As such I am well aware of my legal rights at present.
We (my family) have a number of voluntary arrangements with local centres clubs and individuals, who we allow to accesst he river from our land and we are more than happy with this. Both my husband and i are fully committed to allowing young people to access wild spaces and to have adventures in the outdoors, believing it necessary for people to experience outdoor places in order to grow to love, respect and in turn care for them.
Having canoed and mountaineered extensively in both Uk and abroad, a great model for access is the Scottish model where fishermen and canoeists enjoy rivers side by side and work together to protect the special environment for the enjoyment of all.
I am keen that such a model be adopted in Wales in order to dispel the myth that fishing and canoeing are mutualy exclusive, we often do one from the other, and in order to open up our wonderful open spaces and environments creating respect and susrtaianbilty for the future.
Another couple of countries to look at are Sweden and Norway.
Hoping these views will be taken into consideration.

Kind Regards,

Nuala Dunn