‘This year, the focus of our Safe Maasplassen project is indeed on informing the recreational users in the area, but enforcement is certainly taking place,’ says Roermond Mayor Yolanda Hoogtanders. ‘The Maasplassen area is a fantastic tourist attraction, where on beautiful days thousands of people recreate on and along the water. To manage this properly, rules and their enforcement are essential.’ Hoogtanders is pleased that various enforcement and control agencies are working together harmoniously. ‘Not only during this large joint control, but also outside of it. This makes it clear to the government that the rules are there for a reason.’

Objective
The objective of the control was, among other things, to check recreational vessels for technical defects that may pose a danger to the safety of those on board. This naturally includes taking appropriate measures to rectify these defects and to stop any violations. Additionally, enforcement was carried out regarding compliance with the Inland Navigation Act, the Shipping Traffic Act, and the Inland Navigation Police Regulations. Just as drivers on the road are checked for alcohol and/or drug use, skippers on the water were also checked for operating under the influence. This is to ensure the safety of the skippers and other water sports enthusiasts. By pursuing all these goals, agencies aim to enhance the information position on the water and in and around the marinas and to gain insight into possible criminal activities occurring here.

Heightened Awareness
Many of the present water sports enthusiasts appeared to have their affairs in order. Conversations were held with passengers. All with the underlying thought that it must remain safe and livable for everyone who recreates on and around the Limburg waters. The presence of officers spread the word. ‘This made people more alert and (even more) attentive to getting their affairs in order,’ said Bram Peuten.

Good Conversations
In total, 51 fines were issued for various violations, ranging from operating a jet ski on the Maasplassen, no fire extinguisher on board, no boating license, speeding, unregistered boat, and the fishing law; including fishing with more than three rods. Good conversations were held on the water and in the harbors, involving both recreational users and harbor masters.

Alcohol
Alcohol tests were conducted on 21 skippers. Seven skippers tested positive for alcohol use. All seven scored below the threshold value, thus avoiding a fine. A total of 65 warnings were issued for various issues, including wild camping, life jackets not in order, and mooring where it is not allowed.

Joint Patrols
During the control, vessels from the National Expertise and Operations Unit (Police), the Belgian Shipping Police Antwerp, Sport Fishing Limburg, and Belgian BOAs operated on the Maas between the lock Roermond and the lock Linne up to and including Ohé and Laak and on the Belgian side up to and including the Herenlaak pond. Joint patrols were active between 1:00 PM and 9:00 PM.