I have become concerned about the continuing correspondence in the Bulletin regarding an implied liability on the DCA for the safety of members attending rallies.

The DCA exists to offer help and advice and to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas between like minded people. We have never made sailing rules and even if we did, their implementation would prove impossible. Organising a venue for a rally can in no way imply any responsibility on the organiser or the DCA for the safety of members who attend the event. We arrange rallies in London and elsewhere during the winter - is the DCA responsible for my journey to the venue? I for one, will not walk this road. Indications of possible problems are one thing (eg: don't cross the bar until 1 hour after low water), but attempting to force compliance is quite another. I agree with Len when he says 'to set sail is solely the responsibility of the skipper and crew concerned'. Long may it be so.

The DCA should encourage a safety conscious attitude to sailing and I look forward to the February meeting on this particular issue, which will, I am sure, provide some interesting discussion and correspondence on methods of improving our boats and techniques (and hence safety). From the other correspondence on this issue, it seems to me that members are well aware that setting sail is the skipper's responsibility and no one else’s.

Let's stick to practical suggestions to improve our safety and enjoyment and leave rule making and breaking to the racing boys. Finally, I pose a conundrum - 'How do you become experienced if you are restricted to safe waters?'

David McClellan (President)