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Canoe Wales response to Trespass Consultation

Phil Stone • Mar 02, 2020

We oppose moves to criminalise trespass - paddling on our waterways should not put you at risk of committing a crime!

In November 2019, the Home Office announced a consultation about strengthening police powers to deal with unauthorised encampments. The consultation closes on 4 March 2020. The Conservative party manifesto, published ahead of the 2019 UK general election, reiterated this commitment and their intention to “criminalise intentional trespass”. The Manifesto did not provide detail on what this would mean or under what circumstances it might be applied.

The Canoe Wales draft response to the consultation is now available here.

Our position

Proposals to strengthen police powers to deal with unauthorised encampments must not restrict people's ability to get outdoors and enjoy the countryside. Canoe Wales and its partners in British Canoeing are concerned that the current proposals could be the thin edge of a wedge, resulting in an erosion of people's rights to access the countryside. We will be making it clear to the Government that we oppose moves to criminalise trespass, which would be a major change in the law.

Canoe Wales exists to inspire people to pursue a passion for paddling for health, enjoyment, friendship, challenge and achievement. We are committed to protecting people's ability to enjoy the benefits and sense of freedom that come from being on the water. That means that we, along with our other National Governing Bodies partners, oppose any measures that would deter people from exercising their rights to access the outdoors. It is critical that we make it easier for people to get outside, enjoy the benefits of paddlesport and connect to the natural environment. This will help to address the climate emergency and improve our physical and mental health.

Paddling on our waterways should not put you at risk of committing a crime. Canoe Wales is responding to the Home Office consultation to make sure there is not a detrimental impact for paddlers.

Take action

If you are responding to the consultation as an individual, you are welcome to draw from the points contained in the Canoe Wales consultation response.

If you have any comments on the Canoe Wales response, please contact phil.stone@canoewales.com

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