Futures Forum: Devon Maritime Forum: Thurs 30th June conference >>> "Working Together for Our Coast and Seas"
What it is to consider has been given fresh, if not urgent, perspective:
Brexit: What now for our marine environment and coastal communities?
Brexit: What now for our marine environment and coastal communities?
Dear Forum members
So now we know. Having had the morning to digest the result and speculate on its ramifications many will be disappointed and dismayed but more will be delighted and determined to press ahead with divorce proceedings as soon as possible. Within the broader ‘maritime community’, and even within individual maritime sectors, as with the broader populace, there were powerful, passionate and well-made arguments on both sides. Whether the result is the one you hoped for or not there is no doubt that this is a very significant moment for the maritime sector, as we face the prospect of a new legislative landscape and relationship with our maritime neighbours. While it remains to be seen quite what this timetable for change will be, or what challenges and opportunities may arise over the coming months and years, it is absolutely imperative that as both a sector and as a region that we start, now, from a position where we recognise and acknowledge our sometimes competing interest and areas of conflict but are always open and willing to look for, and head towards, common ground.
If there is to be a ‘bonfire of the directives’ as some have suggested, it is critical, that in the inevitable vacuum that this creates we do not spiral into a no-holds-barred fistfight that pits sector against sector, economic against environmental interests, each forced to entrench positions and harden stances. Rather, we must strongly restate our collective commitment to common goals, to consensus and to cross-sectoral cooperation and working. While there may be an opportunity for some quick wins, in a free for all, it is the long-term sustainable management of our coasts and seas that will has the most to lose.
Let’s start the dialogue now!
Next Thursday’s DMF Summer16 meeting in Plymouth, provides a unique and timely opportunity to have your say, share your optimism and excitement, vent your frustration and concerns, talk it over with fellow stakeholders, ask questions of other sectors, recognise areas of conflict, identify common ground and make a commitment to a shared vision.
Book your place at DMFSummer16
Brexit: What now for our marine environment and coastal communities? | Devon Maritime Forum
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