Lindaunis on the Schlei. Endangered sailing area?
The representatives of the maritime umbrella organizations today communicated their strong reservations about the categorization of the waterways planned by the Federal Ministry of Transport to the members of the Bundestag committees for transport, sport and tourism. The fact that the respective central associations come together for such a concerted action is so far unique.
The criticism relates in particular to the planned downgrading of almost a third of all federal waterways to so-called "other". This means that no more investments will be made in maintaining them in future. Only the waterways that are used for freight traffic will continue to be maintained and expanded.
Schlei as a water sports area in danger?
A possible candidate for the downgrade would be the Schlei, for example. There is hardly any noteworthy freight traffic on it; However, the fjord is still very popular as an idyllic and protected water sports area and as an excursion and holiday region. The sales from tourism, sailing and the maritime economy represent an economic factor that should not be neglected, especially for the neighboring inland areas. Shipyards, outfitters and service companies, but also port operators, charter companies and boat rental companies depend on the Schlei being maintained as a well-developed waterway. The current plans for categorization are in stark contrast to the water tourism concept announced in the coalition agreement, which should actually strengthen the maritime economy.
With the downgrading to "other waterways", the associations also see the danger that the federal government will withdraw completely from the administration of these waterways and leave this to the federal states or private operator organizations. However, this should be avoided at all costs in the interests of uniformity, for example of driving rules. Otherwise there is a risk of a regional patchwork quilt.
The federal government should continue to manage waterways centrally
In their position paper, the representatives of the associations also emphasize the need for a central administration, because they fear the disintegration of many waterways if the operators are split up. They advocate that all waterways remain in the area of responsibility of the federal government and would like all those affected to be closely institutionalized in the decision-making process. If necessary, EU funding could even be obtained for the jointly funded project, thereby opening up further perspectives and room for maneuver.