Rebotco

Exactly so, I agree. Which is why it is so important that the Boater members can forcefully put the interests of BOATERS to a group that will have other agendas. And that in turn to influence the Trustees who will make the actual decisions. Brian

Cheeky!!! Brian

Whether its right or wrong, its still a crappy word in that context. The universally used and understood word "measure" would be far more appropriate. Unless you fancy being a Poser. Brian

The election is through ELECTORAL REFORM SERVICES. I would assume they are independent of BW and CaRT. But certainly insufficient detail has been forthcoming and it does appear to be hastily and sloppily organised. The following link to FAQs may assist those considering standing for the Council. http://www.waterscape.com/media/documents/24729.pdf Brian

Looking forward to that. Brian

The time has come to move on from "debating" this issue. May I offer my suggestion to progress? Let the 3 (or more?) now submit their applications if they are eligible. (although I still think ONE would have a better chance of success). They don't need approval from us, or anyone else. Then dedicate one page to each of them to set out their "vision" (An amplified version of the 150 words they submit with their application). This should not be open to debate, but offered as their statement, which we can use to determine how we will vote. I can see no other basis on which I can decide. I think there is very little further information we can expect, not least due to the fact that the whole execise is huge and new to all concerned, including BW and CaRT. There will doubtless be shortcomings and criticisms to follow, but it is nevertheless in the interests of us all to try and make it work as well as possible. It is likely to take a year or two to iron out this new system, and it would be unreasonable to expect it to launch as perfect from the outset. As boaters we need to engage with the imperfect process we have got, warts and all, and set about helping it to improve for a long future. Brian

LOVE IT. Have a greenie. Brian

Yeah. He would need protection. Perhaps our very own "clique" would oblige? Brian

No problem - one half dead and the other half in clink! With just the workers left, we might see some maintenance get done. brian

What a good idea! Once those "little grey cells" got into gear, half the old BW would finish up in clink. Brian

In my limited experience, a bill of sale is the main way of establishing ownership particularly on older boats. Unlike cars, NBs are rarely nicked - probably because a quick getaway is doomed to failure! Regarding surveyors, you may get more response if you quoted what area of the country you refer to. Best wishes Brian

To me, they are all bloody gorgeous. The landlubbers just don't know what they're missing - and I aint gonna tell 'em! Brian

The waterway is closed indefinitely from Bath bottom lock westwards due to the risk of the (Victoria?) bridge falling into the river. Looks likely to remain so for many months. Brian

Or you could travel backwards and use your prop as a kind of drill! Always glad to help Brian

Bearing in mind the fact that the Council is purely advisory and will have NO POWERS (except to appoint/dismiss Trustees), the info I would most need to know is How would you seek to effectively influence the Trustees, who will be the ones making all decisions? Secondly, an undertaking that you will ONLY promote the interests of BOATERS of all types. Other canal groups will already have their interests supported by one or more of the other 28 Council members who are appointed, rather than elected. By boaters' "interests" I mean the major policies/decisions on Navigation, Maintenance and Costs. I do not mean boaters' "views" within these subjects, as there are as many views as there are boaters! It is the attitude to these two overriding principles that will decide who I vote for, as that will determine the detail of day-to-day matters. Brian