PDSC Covid-19 Update

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30th March 2020

 

I hope that you are all coping in these extremely difficult times.

 

In light of the government’s updated advice to “Stay Home – Protect the NHS – Save Lives” we are revising our guidance.

 

I am now asking all PDSC members to refrain from any boating activity at the club until further notice.

 

The government has advised that all marinas should be closed and the RYA advice is for all recreational boaters to act responsibly and adhere to the government’s regulations to help limit the spread of the virus. Caernarfon Harbour Trust has prohibited access to all moorings and berths within its harbour limits, which includes the waters around Y Felinheli, as movement involving pleasure vessels would be designated as non-essential.

 

The club and the sport of sailing generally would be viewed very unfavourably by the local community if we were to be seen out on the water enjoying ourselves. We have seen the media furore over walkers on Snowdon last weekend and we don’t want that to be directed at our club. The government advice states that walking, running and cycling are acceptable forms of exercise – boating has not been listed as an acceptable form of exercise.

 

I personally know NHS staff who are working 12 hour shifts, seven days a week, and in constant fear of catching the virus – we owe it to them to be responsible and stay home.

 

I appreciate that this is a lot to ask, but we must take these difficult decisions to protect lives.

 

The committee will review this guidance as the situation develops, but I would expect these measures to now be in place until the end of May at the very earliest.

 

Take care and keep safe.

 

Best regards,

Noel

PDSC Commodore