Here you go chaps straight from the IWA

Dear Waterways Supporter,

Further to the recent announcement by the Environment Agency that it was intending to de-man selected Thames Lock houses and dispose of them by sale or let. The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) has been carrying out some intensive parliamentary lobbying; together with writing to many Thames side MPs in whose constituencies the lock houses are situated. An Early Day Motion has now been tabled by Ian Taylor MP for Esher and Walton, concerning the proposed sell-off of Lock Houses on the Thames by the Environment Agency.

Early Day Motion 1587 states:

“That this House is concerned about the Environment Agency's proposal to dispose by sale or letting of 22 lock-keepers' homes along the Thames; recognises the importance of lock-keepers being resident in homes adjacent to locks to maintain safety on the river; fears for the welfare of the lock-keepers and their families; and calls on the Government to ask the Environment Agency to re-examine its decision so as to protect this unique part of the nation's river heritage and the tradition of lock-keepers living at the site of locks.”

IWA believes that this Early Day Motion is a reflection of the unprecedented concern and outrage of many people currently being expressed up and down the river.

Former Thames Navigation and Recreation Manager John Redmond, speaking in support of IWA’s campaign said:

“ I am saddened to think that Thames managers are unable to find other efficiency savings that would have less of a permanent impact on the wellbeing of the River Thames, its users and local residents. Having staff living on site and being generally available as the first port of call for weir work and emergencies has proven its worth time and again over the years.”

IWA asks that all waterway supporters join together in lobbying their MPs to support this EDM and to help save an essential safety service and a distinct and valuable part of the Thames waterside community.

You can see the details of the Early Day Motion and which MPs have signed at :

http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=35864&SESSION=891

Even If you MP has signed it is still worth contacting them to let them know of your support for their actions.

Information on how to contact your local member of parliament can be obtained at

www.theyworkforyou.com/

For more information please contact Jo Gilbertson 01923 711 114 (IWA)