Eugene wrote >Scenario one: boat is noticed unlicensed, and one month later I >pass it again and see it's still unlicensed. I automatically assume >BW aren't doing anything. And I'd be very wrong. > >The fact is that BW will be doing lots of things, but we won't be >erecting flashing lights and banners above each boat informing you >that things are in hand. And the even simpler fact is we can't just >get the boat off the water the day it's licence runs out, unlike the >DVLA and police who can with cars. Sometimes experiences from other >walks of life confuse what happens on the canal network. It's not >because BW aren't bothered, it's because we don't have the powers to >do it this way. > >When it comes to liveaboards we are talking at least 18 months to >successful prosecution, by the way. Non liveaboard cn be up to 12 >months. But rest assured, the non licensed boater will either pay >(plus back dating) or the boat will eventually be removed. But not >overnight and not within a couple of months either.
This is something I say on a regular basis. I believe BW are doing well on license evaison. I am not sure whether it is cost effective. It must cost thousands in wages, office expenses and legal costs to recover 500-600 pounds a boat. Sue nb Nackered Navvy
