Old style journalism, how I have missed it. No short soundbites, instead hard and direct questions and then giving enough time to the person being interviewed to answer them fully. Real journalism is a dying art, but you gave a masterclass. Thank you.
Anyone who criticizes Mr Parry has never held a position of responsibility, been a manager, or supervisor. He was very honest with his answers and did not dodge any questions. If you think you have better solutions please let us hear them.
David, I know you originally “retired” to your narrow boat in effect, divorcing yourself from you former life as a TV news man. However, this [2-part] series shows you have not lost your touch. In fact, your skills as an interviewer seem as sharp as ever. I thoroughly enjoyed this piece with Mr. Parry. One part did stand out, and that was his reply on the auctioning of some moorings (part 1, 22:56). I think he missed an opportunity to justify and applaud this program, instead of apologizing for it. As an alternative to seeing the auctions as “only the rich can afford them” situation, he should have explained that this increases the amount of funds available for the canals which, in turn, benefit all boaters. Perhaps he should have added that a program will be added to make some spots available at a lower cost through some sort of lottery system. Very few of your viewers will ever know how much work, all the preparation, all the scheduling, all the equipment and setup it took to do this. Also, the editing must have been a real chore, but you did a great job in making everyone look good. This piece was better than most of the stuff I see on TV here in America. Thanks for doing what you do so well. -Phil K. Indianapolis USA
Brilliant interview! if only people around the planet could bring themselves to show each other the respect seen here, I think we would all be ok. Hats off to you both!
Well David, this has been one of the most interesting vloggs I have had the pleasure of watching, you were an absolute star letting him answer the questions, also the answers were informative and make sense 👍
To the commenters that are unhappy with his answers I would like to thank him for sitting down and answering questions instead of dismissing his responses.
Excellent interview. Mr Parry comes over as someone who knows and understands the issues. Let's hope that the funding issue is favourably resolved so the canals which CRT are responsible for can continue to enjoy a future.
When talking to a topmanager like this, you have to accept that many of his/her answers will be a little like an Oracle; ie no yes no no, but still! I think this interview is among the best vlogs you made! Thank you.
David, thank you for explaining , during your interview just what HVO is to the uninitiated, like myself. I appreciate your thoughtful interjections, which kept the interview understandable to us land lubbers. Learnt a lot and appreciate your technique in actually allowing the interviewee to answer , something sadly lacking on tele these days. Well done that man 👌 x
These two episodes were absolutely fascinating. Thank you both for opening up behind the scenes - I learnt a great deal that I would not otherwise have been able to divine.
@@bbrockert "Can I just first say how important diversity is within a cheeseboard for any event be it down the pub for a ploughman's with a work colleague from the northern mines to a slightly more refined garden party in the south of which I did not attend and if I did it was by mistake because I thought it was a shareholders meeting"
Now it is an indisputable fact. This is the best Narrowboat channel. You did a great job on the interview - asked good questions - no grandstanding, letting a complete answer come out. Kudos!
Sir you have done your canal life brethren a great service here. Two words kept popping into my mind as I watched both Pt.1 & 2: conundrum and labyrinthine. One should think all canal goers are well served by Mr. Parry, who could no doubt quadruple his salary in the private sector. He was knowledgeable across the very broad spectrum of subject matter of questions you presented, inferring he has already put much thought into the multitude of issues the CRT is confronted with. Kudos for the hard questions old chap, you didn't go softly as well you shouldn't have. Well done. Looking forward to your summary in the coming weeks. This content was a hard watch, like drinking from a fire hose, but it certainly will open many narrow boaters' eyes as to the complexity of the issues at hand. The times they are a changin'...and folks will have to acknowledge that. There's the pity. Cheers.
Growing up in Manchester, I remember fishing on derelict Canals and asking my Dad why they were derelict. His answer not needed, will just continue to go down. I took part in a sponsored walk along the Rochdale Canal into Manchester. Absolute mess of broken gates, just k thrown in there. Now fully open. Mustn't lose sight of what has been achieved. Big thanks to you and Richard for this. What would have been good to hear from Richard is concrete plans to address many of the issues raised. If they came forward with these and made more of the achievements, maybe there would be less unfair criticism.
Excellent interview, which won't satisfy everyone but which went a long way to putting a face to the organisation. RP is impressive - I've worked with major charities whose CEOs could not have handled such a wide complexity of questioning with such well informed responses. Congratulations on a major coup - a toss up as to who is the biggest cheese in their particular field...
Excellent interview! I've been a liveaboard for five years now and, as much as I follow the 14-day rule fairly religiously, I've had the odd engine breakdown and informed the local rep asap and have been allowed an extension. I have no axe to grind. Plus, as a friend of the CRT and just a responsible boater, I always try to leave a mooring better than I found it (like trimming bushes and filling potholes with ash) and as a cyclist I just use my brain and slow for other towpath users. Good luck Richard Parry, just remember Caesar's words - "You can please some of the the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but never ..." - you know the rest 🙂
Thank you, Mr. Parry, for being willing to field some pretty tough questions about the canals, the future and all of those who use them. (Especially with David it’s all about the cheese!) Thank you, Mr. Johns, for digging out your interviewer’s skills and doing the research, the setup, the delivery, the editing, etc.,etc., etc… The right man at the right time. Thank you to the volunteers who give so generously of your time for the benefit of all. If I were on your side of the Big Pond I would gladly join you.
I found this set of two interviews to be interesting and informative. David, you pulled no punches but were polite about it and Richard, you didn't hum and haw and made me, for one, believe that you do have a good understanding of the problems assailing the miles and miles of canals, tow paths, pounds and reservoirs, and that you really do care. Bravo to you both.
David this brings back memories to me when you were a reporter on our local tv. Nice to see you haven't lost your touch getting answers. Shame the rabble on tv now don't take a leaf out of your book
I know a lot of folks will still be very critical of him and his organization, but when he mentioned the latent heat of the water as a source for heat pumps, I was sold that this is a guy who is genuinely knowledgeable about the system that he is entrusted with. They are between a rock and a hard place on funding, the government clearly isn't interested in spending more. Maybe in the end there needs to be an equivalent of the "adopt a highway" program where people can volunteer to do the easier maintenance tasks. Not just lockies, but trimmies.
I was rather impressed with your hard questions, takes some stones! This man seems to be quite honest and maybe a little too left wing but there's hope for future.
Although I agree with your general sentiment, I would hardly say that his idea of 'the highest bidder' in a market place was traditionally a left wing trait. In fact, pricing people our of somewhere to live to increase the fold in your pocket is more right leaning I would say.
Thank you so much to both of you for taking the time to address so many questions. I'm old and on the west coast of America so will most likely never have the opportunity to cruise the cut but I love watching the videos and learning more about it. Well done!
As an outsider (nonboater, landlocked in Central Illinois, U.S.), I've watched both parts of this interview and I don't quite understand the haters on this man. He seemed to do his best to answer your questions and seemed informed about all the aspects of the canal system and its issues. He has a very difficult job, having to accommodate the needs of so many different groups using the canals as well as those that just live on them and the donors and politicians, etc. Some of the comments were critical of him being or speaking like a politician. Well, yes, he is, he has to play a huge balancing act and it sounds like he's genuinely trying to do a good job. Thank you for creating this great interview.
WELL DONE TO THE BOTH OF YOU! Very poignant, well aimed, questions you proposed and very intelligent, well explained answers given by Richard. You certainly didn't "pull your punches" in directing your inquiries, which were appreciated by a wide array of viewers, and Richard's responses, while candid, were of the utmost professionalism! Again, sirs, well done to the both of you. Loved the cheese question! 😋
What a brilliant piece of work David Well done An overall picture painted by Richard of the challenging task ahead which might not succeed in pulling the network together into a self sufficient functionality unit. If the Government pull the plug which is a distinct possibility in today's financial climate then we all should be worried about the future for our canals. I noticed in part 1 you touched on two of my points I mentioned. Richards answer to the first was a model of response when needed instead of my view that if the CRT had staff paid to look after the network where possible it might possibly save monies in the long term ten or twenty years hence. It's not something Richard might have considered as a model which works very well. Those who don't use the canals have no respect for them evidenced by graffiti and rubbish either chucked in the canals or rivers and or left on towpaths and to a lesser degree by those using the network. Legislation perhaps the only option open. Thank you for your time and effort in speaking to Richard so openly Keep safe dry warm and virus free.
For the green issue has anyone thought of using horses to tow the narrow boats? The financial and employment gains in building an infrastructure to look after the beasts would be excellent. Just a thought!
Great job, Being from Texas Issues I would’ve never thought I would care about. I’ve joyed both part one and part two . Come on RUclips community this channel should be at 1 million subscribers!
Absolutely the best Interview I have heard . You did ask some tricky questions but with respect. These two vlogs were superb. Thank you for broadcasting this for all to hear.
A double marathon -I'm very glad I stayed the course of both videos as there's a helluva-lot-of-information-and-food-for thought for all sorts of canal users...
What a down to earth, honest, concerning , question and answer segment. To the point from both sides.The fact that someone in charge , answered real life questions ,about the cut lifestyle, is refreshing. This video helps alot of people, to now know what is really happening in perspective to the current and future .......
Here in Victoria Australia we also have problems with cyclists, they seem to think the dual purpose paths belong to them and the people walking are obstacles. Thanks for another great vlog.
Brave chap for granting the interview. Some answers were better than others of course, and yes, that is a personal view. He is in a job where pretty much by definition he is not going to be liked by some quarters since any decision is going to have perceived winners and losers. I've seen vlogs of London based live-aboard boaters who are complaining that they can't simple moor full time in moorings designated short term moorings, thus blocking them off so continual cruisers can't hope to ever visit London, and of course others from continual cruisers who want to visit London but are too scared about the lack of moorings. The point on composting toilet waste is very clear really - since refuse still has to be sorted at least partially by hand it really is not fair to expect workers to be dealing with human waste splattered stuff - and no mater how well it was bagged before dumping by the time the skips are tipped into trucks and tipped again into sorting plants the bags will be ripped to shreds. It is not a pleasant job to start with, don't make it worse. The whole point of compost is having land to use it on to grow stuff, not to simply dump it. I would have loved to see the prospect of removing the north-south dividing pinch points. Unless I am mistaken, on at least one route the number of locks that would need to be widened to accomplish this can be counted on the fingers of one hand. That would be amazing. Interesting to hear about the discounts for electric boats. I had not heard of that before.
Great effort. Thank you for making the effort to pull this all together and for sharing it with all of us. It seems like it didn't come up directly, but addressing all the different areas of concern really comes down to having enough money, doesn't it? I would think it important for all the folks who are advocating for different issues (maintenance, green or carbon neutrality, etc), to start with the realization that there's only a fixed amount of money available in a given year, and that instead of stating that "my issue is more important then yours", all of the different groups have to work together to address issues, agree upon compromise, and go to bat for continued funding. From a global perspective, maintaining the canal network (personally an important one for me, even if I never get to spend time on those canal waters), is but a part of the many issues facing the world as a whole. Until we collectively recognize that the important issues, many of them global, demand cooperation, and a collective effort, we may be doomed to fail.
Thanks very much for this video - insightful questioning, well done! (Amazed that there are only 35,000 private boats on the system - I have often wondered what it would be like if every boat in every marina took to the cut at the same time!)
Great interviewing David - we need more like you on the main stream news - allowing Richard to get his point across whilst still challenging him but in a civilised manner.
Absolutely excellent David. Thank you for a great interview. You haven't lost anything since you left broadcast television. In fact I think you've improved greatly. Cheers
Actually seems like a decent bloke. Yeah he's a chief exec so needs to moderate his answers but they all seemed sensible and realistic. Great interview though.
All the canal users of all kind owe you a big thank you for these two interviews David and to Richard too who answered so well without trying to cover up any shortfalls..As for a choice of British Cheese then it has to be Stilton. I'm wondering now David if you have made any agreement to have further information exchanges with the CRT in the future. Again an excellent Vlog ,thank you David well done. Cheers from Canada
Very interesting insight and interview there and lucky to have a CEO give so much time. I personally would love to see vast improvements on the towpath network and believe that long distance adventure routes for hikers&bikers could contribute to green tourism that that, with such an extensive and historic network, would rival Europe and the US. As a regular towpath user I find it disheartening to see some of the comments on here of people who clearly don’t approve of activities they don’t take part in. I spend most of my towpath time as a Walker/cyclist and occasional jogger. Sometimes even a shopper and even commuter. I like to think that I am considerate of all other users. As a Walker - accept that a bike or runner will pass you on a wonderful shared space - Don’t ignore bells , be courteous, say hello! Same goes for bike users - a nod or smile to acknowledge someone standing aside for a few seconds can go a long way. It’s basic manners and politeness yet I have unfortunately returned home wondering what is wrong with people for the reaction towards a runner , Walker or cyclist!
Well done, David. I was satisfied Richard Parry understands the challenges of a very complex system of waterways. It boggles my mind, but then I've no experience away from my recliner! I'm sure the goverment understands the value of the waterways and that there will be continued funding. There are constraints of course and we must depend on people like Richard to negotiate a fair deal for his constituents. He seemed to be a man capable of doing that.
Great interview David, getting some key questions in there. It's the first opportunity I've had to hear Richard speak openly about the issues raised and he seemed to answer honestly and fairly. Clearly funding to cover the costs is always going to be an issue, and it did seem Richard is REALLY hoping to get the next phase of government funding sorted as soon as possible.
A jury last week convicted Biffa guilty of 4 offences of exporting poorly-sorted household waste from its recycling facility at Edmonton in north London to Asia in 2018 and 2019. ... In addition to the £1.5 million fine, Biffa was ordered to pay costs of £153,827.99, and a proceeds of crime order of £38,388.
Nice interview, I live in the USA and found this interesting from start to finish. One thing for sure is you came at him with a lineup of good questions. Asking about the pay of the top workers and hard questions about removing mooring places. I find the auctioning off of the top mooring sites making good sense. Just like concerts here in the USA, some concerts auction off their top seats. What happens when not auctioned people buy them because they where lucky to get in on that date and time to pay for it, then turn around and auction off the site anyway. So let the river trust make the higher rate on some of the mooring sites.
Best last question ever 😂. You still have it as an interviewer. People love to move by canals or river but don’t want to see boats specially live aboard. 👍🏻✌🏻🇨🇦
@CruisingTheCut , Part 2 is, dare I say it, even better than part 1. I think the most important aspect of this is that prospective narrowboaters will find out that living on a narrowboat has quite a lot of challenges attached to it, and isn't quite the carefree relaxed life they thought it would be. There are apparently a lot of problems, not the least of which is dealing with human waste products. And how incredibly annoying that a composting toilet is not accepted at most places! I would urge people to look for another way to escape the cities or the high cost of housing. Thanks for another great interview, David.
Well done. The C&RT waters AND adjacent land are VERY valuable due to their ability to provide fantastic recreational opportunities to many types of users. Annual mooring fees for on the canal mooring need to be adjusted to a level that is similar to local waterfront properties.The bikers speed should be addressed with frequent 90 degree barriers and a fee/permit system. The future uses will impact all users, make sure it can be maintained for all. The Canal system is a gift of unimaginable proportions.... for the health and well-being of locals and visitors alike.
Great interview David, kudos to Richard for taking part. On the green issue for fires and engines, you can negate these with carbon negative practices, ie carbon capture, to achieve net carbon zero.
Fantastic interview David, thank you! I love how you play "Devil's Advocate" and ask some pretty pointed questions, but also give Mr Parry the opportunity to respond in full. I have to say, I've learned a lot about how the CRT is funded and have a slightly better understanding of some of the challenges they face. He's an excellent spokesperson for the CRT and, dare I say, worth every penny? Cheers!
Now I had finally time to watch the whole interview, what a great 👍 interview. Kudos to Richard for answering the unknown and you, David! As so many boaters complain about, weeds and overgrown areas, can’t the boaters be recruited volunteers and take care of sections they come by ?? Take a rake, get the weeds out. Or would you think that would do damage? Overall great questions, my magic wand 🪄 wish, would’ve been “ unlimited funds” for the canal’s!!! Have a great day David and as always looking forward to your next vlog !
Great interview. All users of the CRT facilities be it on water or land, should feel privileged to have such a wonderful asset at their disposal. Respect what you have and it will reward you in so many ways. I am 64 and have been lucky enough to have visited many places in the world, but my 3 week canal cruise is the one I cherish the most. Greetings from South Africa.
Thank you David for a brilliant interview. The questions were well positioned and provided a balance between now and the future of the canal system. Regardless of the umbrella perspective this is no easy task to manage a system with so many needs or expectations and as many points of views. Bravo for trying to pin him to specifics while offering avenues for his vision.
The interview was informative and courteous despite the sensitivity of some of the issues. Well done on taking the initiative David and well done on Richard taking up the invitation - I though he kept focussed on each issue and was not passing off blame when there was blame to be attached. An incredibly difficult job to balance the competing interests of grant-givers, fee-payers, users and 'owners'. Very helpful.
I really enjoy your simple interview style. You ask a question and let him answer fully. Can’t get that on normal broadcast tv interviews.
Agree 100%
I thought the exact same thing. So refreshing for someone to ask the question and then STOP to allow an answer
Of course most TV interviews are political, very short, and the interviewee will duck the Q if its tricky
Old style journalism, how I have missed it. No short soundbites, instead hard and direct questions and then giving enough time to the person being interviewed to answer them fully. Real journalism is a dying art, but you gave a masterclass. Thank you.
Anyone who criticizes Mr Parry has never held a position of responsibility, been a manager, or supervisor. He was very honest with his answers and did not dodge any questions. If you think you have better solutions please let us hear them.
Nice to see your reporter skills are still sharp. Hard hitting questions, excellent work.
David,
I know you originally “retired” to your narrow boat in effect, divorcing yourself from you former life as a TV news man. However, this [2-part] series shows you have not lost your touch. In fact, your skills as an interviewer seem as sharp as ever.
I thoroughly enjoyed this piece with Mr. Parry. One part did stand out, and that was his reply on the auctioning of some moorings (part 1, 22:56). I think he missed an opportunity to justify and applaud this program, instead of apologizing for it. As an alternative to seeing the auctions as “only the rich can afford them” situation, he should have explained that this increases the amount of funds available for the canals which, in turn, benefit all boaters. Perhaps he should have added that a program will be added to make some spots available at a lower cost through some sort of lottery system.
Very few of your viewers will ever know how much work, all the preparation, all the scheduling, all the equipment and setup it took to do this. Also, the editing must have been a real chore, but you did a great job in making everyone look good. This piece was better than most of the stuff I see on TV here in America.
Thanks for doing what you do so well. -Phil K. Indianapolis USA
Thank you!
Brilliant interview! if only people around the planet could bring themselves to show each other the respect seen here, I think we would all be ok.
Hats off to you both!
Well David, this has been one of the most interesting vloggs I have had the pleasure of watching, you were an absolute star letting him answer the questions, also the answers were informative and make sense 👍
Fair play how many CEOs would put themselves forward like this. Great videos
Beautifully done David but dammit I needed closure on the cheese 🧀
Brilliant interview. Just wanted to drop by and say that I can't think of a better person to ask the questions. It was very balanced.
To the commenters that are unhappy with his answers I would like to thank him for sitting down and answering questions instead of dismissing his responses.
Excellent stuff David. Kudos to the CEO as well, a real pro who had informative and credible answers.
He's good at obfuscation, after being in the rail industry for many years. That network is a bit of a shambles too...
Excellent interview. Mr Parry comes over as someone who knows and understands the issues. Let's hope that the funding issue is favourably resolved so the canals which CRT are responsible for can continue to enjoy a future.
When talking to a topmanager like this, you have to accept that many of his/her answers will be a little like an Oracle; ie no yes no no, but still! I think this interview is among the best vlogs you made! Thank you.
David, thank you for explaining , during your interview just what HVO is to the uninitiated, like myself. I appreciate your thoughtful interjections, which kept the interview understandable to us land lubbers. Learnt a lot and appreciate your technique in actually allowing the interviewee to answer , something sadly lacking on tele these days. Well done that man 👌 x
These two episodes were absolutely fascinating. Thank you both for opening up behind the scenes - I learnt a great deal that I would not otherwise have been able to divine.
My cheese question got in? This is my most significant contribution to the boating community thus far.
Haha but believe it or not, you were one of about five people who suggested that!
@@CruisingTheCut Nope. It was me. I win. Buoyancy Aid.
I think it was his most politic answer. Would have been funnier if he'd gone with roquefort or pecorino romano.
@@bbrockert "Can I just first say how important diversity is within a cheeseboard for any event be it down the pub for a ploughman's with a work colleague from the northern mines to a slightly more refined garden party in the south of which I did not attend and if I did it was by mistake because I thought it was a shareholders meeting"
Now it is an indisputable fact. This is the best Narrowboat channel. You did a great job on the interview - asked good questions - no grandstanding, letting a complete answer come out. Kudos!
Sir you have done your canal life brethren a great service here. Two words kept popping into my mind as I watched both Pt.1 & 2: conundrum and labyrinthine. One should think all canal goers are well served by Mr. Parry, who could no doubt quadruple his salary in the private sector. He was knowledgeable across the very broad spectrum of subject matter of questions you presented, inferring he has already put much thought into the multitude of issues the CRT is confronted with. Kudos for the hard questions old chap, you didn't go softly as well you shouldn't have. Well done. Looking forward to your summary in the coming weeks. This content was a hard watch, like drinking from a fire hose, but it certainly will open many narrow boaters' eyes as to the complexity of the issues at hand. The times they are a changin'...and folks will have to acknowledge that. There's the pity. Cheers.
I don't think that you've checked the CRT accounts re RP's salary ! In my view, he is very much worth it.
Growing up in Manchester, I remember fishing on derelict Canals and asking my Dad why they were derelict. His answer not needed, will just continue to go down. I took part in a sponsored walk along the Rochdale Canal into Manchester. Absolute mess of broken gates, just k thrown in there. Now fully open. Mustn't lose sight of what has been achieved.
Big thanks to you and Richard for this. What would have been good to hear from Richard is concrete plans to address many of the issues raised. If they came forward with these and made more of the achievements, maybe there would be less unfair criticism.
Excellent interview, which won't satisfy everyone but which went a long way to putting a face to the organisation. RP is impressive - I've worked with major charities whose CEOs could not have handled such a wide complexity of questioning with such well informed responses. Congratulations on a major coup - a toss up as to who is the biggest cheese in their particular field...
Excellent interview! I've been a liveaboard for five years now and, as much as I follow the 14-day rule fairly religiously, I've had the odd engine breakdown and informed the local rep asap and have been allowed an extension. I have no axe to grind. Plus, as a friend of the CRT and just a responsible boater, I always try to leave a mooring better than I found it (like trimming bushes and filling potholes with ash) and as a cyclist I just use my brain and slow for other towpath users. Good luck Richard Parry, just remember Caesar's words - "You can please some of the the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but never ..." - you know the rest 🙂
Well done, David - another excellent and interesting video. You are rapidly becoming the National Treasure of the waterways!
Absolutely brilliant to have the man give the time to answer the questions
Thank you, Mr. Parry, for being willing to field some pretty tough questions about the canals, the future and all of those who use them. (Especially with David it’s all about the cheese!)
Thank you, Mr. Johns, for digging out your interviewer’s skills and doing the research, the setup, the delivery, the editing, etc.,etc., etc… The right man at the right time.
Thank you to the volunteers who give so generously of your time for the benefit of all. If I were on your side of the Big Pond I would gladly join you.
I found this set of two interviews to be interesting and informative. David, you pulled no punches but were polite about it and Richard, you didn't hum and haw and made me, for one, believe that you do have a good understanding of the problems assailing the miles and miles of canals, tow paths, pounds and reservoirs, and that you really do care. Bravo to you both.
Great job David! Mr Parry is quite passionate about the Canal and River Trust, that’s good.
Both videos nicely done.
David this brings back memories to me when you were a reporter on our local tv. Nice to see you haven't lost your touch getting answers. Shame the rabble on tv now don't take a leaf out of your book
modern journalists are indeed a rabble.
I know a lot of folks will still be very critical of him and his organization, but when he mentioned the latent heat of the water as a source for heat pumps, I was sold that this is a guy who is genuinely knowledgeable about the system that he is entrusted with. They are between a rock and a hard place on funding, the government clearly isn't interested in spending more. Maybe in the end there needs to be an equivalent of the "adopt a highway" program where people can volunteer to do the easier maintenance tasks. Not just lockies, but trimmies.
I was rather impressed with your hard questions, takes some stones! This man seems to be quite honest and maybe a little too left wing but there's hope for future.
Cheers
Although I agree with your general sentiment, I would hardly say that his idea of 'the highest bidder' in a market place was traditionally a left wing trait. In fact, pricing people our of somewhere to live to increase the fold in your pocket is more right leaning I would say.
@@rimmerd9908 I was more seeing the matter of fact way he talked about "climate change".
Thank you so much to both of you for taking the time to address so many questions. I'm old and on the west coast of America so will most likely never have the opportunity to cruise the cut but I love watching the videos and learning more about it. Well done!
Hi David.
I would just like to thank Richard for taking to you and giving the answers he did.
Very informative.
As an outsider (nonboater, landlocked in Central Illinois, U.S.), I've watched both parts of this interview and I don't quite understand the haters on this man. He seemed to do his best to answer your questions and seemed informed about all the aspects of the canal system and its issues. He has a very difficult job, having to accommodate the needs of so many different groups using the canals as well as those that just live on them and the donors and politicians, etc. Some of the comments were critical of him being or speaking like a politician. Well, yes, he is, he has to play a huge balancing act and it sounds like he's genuinely trying to do a good job. Thank you for creating this great interview.
WELL DONE TO THE BOTH OF YOU! Very poignant, well aimed, questions you proposed and very intelligent, well explained answers given by Richard. You certainly didn't "pull your punches" in directing your inquiries, which were appreciated by a wide array of viewers, and Richard's responses, while candid, were of the utmost professionalism! Again, sirs, well done to the both of you. Loved the cheese question! 😋
'I appreciated seeing this. I believe Richard was being truthful.
Thanks David, great scoop of yours to get Richard for 90 mins, excellent!
What a brilliant piece of work David
Well done
An overall picture painted by Richard of the challenging task ahead which might not succeed in pulling the network together into a self sufficient functionality unit.
If the Government pull the plug which is a distinct possibility in today's financial climate then we all should be worried about the future for our canals.
I noticed in part 1 you touched on two of my points I mentioned.
Richards answer to the first was a model of response when needed instead of my view that if the CRT had staff paid to look after the network where possible it might possibly save monies in the long term ten or twenty years hence.
It's not something Richard might have considered as a model which works very well.
Those who don't use the canals have no respect for them evidenced by graffiti and rubbish either chucked in the canals or rivers and or left on towpaths and to a lesser degree by those using the network.
Legislation perhaps the only option open.
Thank you for your time and effort in speaking to Richard so openly
Keep safe dry warm and virus free.
For the green issue has anyone thought of using horses to tow the narrow boats? The financial and employment gains in building an infrastructure to look after the beasts would be excellent. Just a thought!
I’m having this feeling that someone somewhere may have tried that once or twice.
Be careful where you step!
These two videos are probably the best you have done to date. You asked challenging questions & it was very good of the Chief Executive to take part.
Great job, Being from Texas Issues I would’ve never thought I would care about. I’ve joyed both part one and part two . Come on RUclips community this channel should be at 1 million subscribers!
David congratulations. This is a fantastic interview and very informative.
Great questions everybody! I hope it gets the funding it needs. Mr. Parry sounds like the right man for the job.
He's been in the job for 8 1/2 years. He might get the hang of it soon.
Absolutely the best Interview I have heard . You did ask some tricky questions but with respect. These two vlogs were superb. Thank you for broadcasting this for all to hear.
A double marathon -I'm very glad I stayed the course of both videos as there's a helluva-lot-of-information-and-food-for thought for all sorts of canal users...
What a down to earth, honest, concerning , question and answer segment. To the point from both sides.The fact that someone in charge , answered real life questions ,about the cut lifestyle, is refreshing. This video helps alot of people, to now know what is really happening in perspective to the current and future .......
Hey David, don't look now but your channel (among others) is one of the reasons for the explosion of canal popularity.
Here in Victoria Australia we also have problems with cyclists, they seem to think the dual purpose paths belong to them and the people walking are obstacles. Thanks for another great vlog.
You are and remain, the best, David. What a great interview and a thoroughly well informed and approachable gentleman he is.
Very well done, Thank you David and Mr Parry.
Was a great insight into the way the CRT system works. Thanks for the interview. For us in USA.
👍
Really excellent questions and even better interrogation based on the questions. Congratulations.
His explanation is good.. compost should have it's own bin
Brave chap for granting the interview. Some answers were better than others of course, and yes, that is a personal view. He is in a job where pretty much by definition he is not going to be liked by some quarters since any decision is going to have perceived winners and losers. I've seen vlogs of London based live-aboard boaters who are complaining that they can't simple moor full time in moorings designated short term moorings, thus blocking them off so continual cruisers can't hope to ever visit London, and of course others from continual cruisers who want to visit London but are too scared about the lack of moorings.
The point on composting toilet waste is very clear really - since refuse still has to be sorted at least partially by hand it really is not fair to expect workers to be dealing with human waste splattered stuff - and no mater how well it was bagged before dumping by the time the skips are tipped into trucks and tipped again into sorting plants the bags will be ripped to shreds. It is not a pleasant job to start with, don't make it worse. The whole point of compost is having land to use it on to grow stuff, not to simply dump it.
I would have loved to see the prospect of removing the north-south dividing pinch points. Unless I am mistaken, on at least one route the number of locks that would need to be widened to accomplish this can be counted on the fingers of one hand. That would be amazing.
Interesting to hear about the discounts for electric boats. I had not heard of that before.
David ..you are an excellent communicator
Not being a boater, there were so many questions I just never thought about, and so many problems I never knew about.
Great effort. Thank you for making the effort to pull this all together and for sharing it with all of us.
It seems like it didn't come up directly, but addressing all the different areas of concern really comes down to having enough money, doesn't it? I would think it important for all the folks who are advocating for different issues (maintenance, green or carbon neutrality, etc), to start with the realization that there's only a fixed amount of money available in a given year, and that instead of stating that "my issue is more important then yours", all of the different groups have to work together to address issues, agree upon compromise, and go to bat for continued funding.
From a global perspective, maintaining the canal network (personally an important one for me, even if I never get to spend time on those canal waters), is but a part of the many issues facing the world as a whole. Until we collectively recognize that the important issues, many of them global, demand cooperation, and a collective effort, we may be doomed to fail.
Hard hitting journalist as well, and you didn't interrupt him. You did really well, my friend. Congratulations. I enjoyed this very much.
Thanks very much for this video - insightful questioning, well done! (Amazed that there are only 35,000 private boats on the system - I have often wondered what it would be like if every boat in every marina took to the cut at the same time!)
Well done, I watched both vlogs, and you did very well with your questions, on a difficult and diverse subject. Thanks David
Well done, David. What a great interview, great questions and thank you for doing this.
Great interviewing David - we need more like you on the main stream news - allowing Richard to get his point across whilst still challenging him but in a civilised manner.
Thanks
Absolutely excellent David. Thank you for a great interview. You haven't lost anything since you left broadcast television. In fact I think you've improved greatly. Cheers
Actually seems like a decent bloke. Yeah he's a chief exec so needs to moderate his answers but they all seemed sensible and realistic. Great interview though.
Thank you David. A great interview with some tough, but needed, questions.
BBC's loss, our gain! You have done a great job here, kudos to your guest for fronting up.
What a pleasant interview!!
This man is very passionate about his job
He is, yes
All the canal users of all kind owe you a big thank you for these two interviews David and to Richard too who answered so well without trying to cover up any shortfalls..As for a choice of British Cheese then it has to be Stilton.
I'm wondering now David if you have made any agreement to have further information exchanges with the CRT in the future.
Again an excellent Vlog ,thank you David well done.
Cheers from Canada
Very interesting insight and interview there and lucky to have a CEO give so much time.
I personally would love to see vast improvements on the towpath network and believe that long distance adventure routes for hikers&bikers could contribute to green tourism that that, with such an extensive and historic network, would rival Europe and the US.
As a regular towpath user I find it disheartening to see some of the comments on here of people who clearly don’t approve of activities they don’t take part in. I spend most of my towpath time as a Walker/cyclist and occasional jogger. Sometimes even a shopper and even commuter. I like to think that I am considerate of all other users. As a Walker - accept that a bike or runner will pass you on a wonderful shared space - Don’t ignore bells , be courteous, say hello! Same goes for bike users - a nod or smile to acknowledge someone standing aside for a few seconds can go a long way.
It’s basic manners and politeness yet I have unfortunately returned home wondering what is wrong with people for the reaction towards a runner , Walker or cyclist!
Outstanding work David. Excellent content. 🍻
Great. You asked the hard questions and he willingly answered them. Positive interview and much information for us all.
A wildly respectable interviewer and interviewee.
Well done, David. I was satisfied Richard Parry understands the challenges of a very complex system of waterways. It boggles my mind, but then I've no experience away from my recliner! I'm sure the goverment understands the value of the waterways and that there will be continued funding. There are constraints of course and we must depend on people like Richard to negotiate a fair deal for his constituents. He seemed to be a man capable of doing that.
Great interview David, getting some key questions in there.
It's the first opportunity I've had to hear Richard speak openly about the issues raised and he seemed to answer honestly and fairly.
Clearly funding to cover the costs is always going to be an issue, and it did seem Richard is REALLY hoping to get the next phase of government funding sorted as soon as possible.
Cheers from Österreich!
Thank you, a well balanced, informative and directed interview.
Excellent interview. Very pointed serious questions. He handled it well. Seems to be a decent guy. Good job.
Great interview David Nice that you asked the questions many wouldn't
This is excellent work, David. A polished interview and Richard was relaxed, engaged and informative.
He's a really good speaker. I liked how he answered all the questions. Very good interview!
A jury last week convicted Biffa guilty of 4 offences of exporting poorly-sorted household waste from its recycling facility at Edmonton in north London to Asia in 2018 and 2019. ... In addition to the £1.5 million fine, Biffa was ordered to pay costs of £153,827.99, and a proceeds of crime order of £38,388.
That’s depressing
Nice interview, I live in the USA and found this interesting from start to finish. One thing for sure is you came at him with a lineup of good questions. Asking about the pay of the top workers and hard questions about removing mooring places. I find the auctioning off of the top mooring sites making good sense. Just like concerts here in the USA, some concerts auction off their top seats. What happens when not auctioned people buy them because they where lucky to get in on that date and time to pay for it, then turn around and auction off the site anyway. So let the river trust make the higher rate on some of the mooring sites.
Thank you David. Great questions and answers.
Thank you David for this two part interview. Very enlightening.
Cheers
Best last question ever 😂. You still have it as an interviewer. People love to move by canals or river but don’t want to see boats specially live aboard. 👍🏻✌🏻🇨🇦
I think he speaks very well to be fair.
Excellent interview David.
@CruisingTheCut , Part 2 is, dare I say it, even better than part 1. I think the most important aspect of this is that prospective narrowboaters will find out that living on a narrowboat has quite a lot of challenges attached to it, and isn't quite the carefree relaxed life they thought it would be. There are apparently a lot of problems, not the least of which is dealing with human waste products. And how incredibly annoying that a composting toilet is not accepted at most places! I would urge people to look for another way to escape the cities or the high cost of housing. Thanks for another great interview, David.
It is always good to hear from monsieur Camembert himself, well done.
Well done. The C&RT waters AND adjacent land are VERY valuable due to their ability to provide fantastic recreational opportunities to many types of users. Annual mooring fees for on the canal mooring need to be adjusted to a level that is similar to local waterfront properties.The bikers speed should be addressed with frequent 90 degree barriers and a fee/permit system. The future uses will impact all users, make sure it can be maintained for all. The Canal system is a gift of unimaginable proportions.... for the health and well-being of locals and visitors alike.
he seemed relieved at the end regards the cheese question
Great interview David, kudos to Richard for taking part. On the green issue for fires and engines, you can negate these with carbon negative practices, ie carbon capture, to achieve net carbon zero.
Brilliant interview! Thank you for all you do!
Fantastic interview David, thank you! I love how you play "Devil's Advocate" and ask some pretty pointed questions, but also give Mr Parry the opportunity to respond in full. I have to say, I've learned a lot about how the CRT is funded and have a slightly better understanding of some of the challenges they face. He's an excellent spokesperson for the CRT and, dare I say, worth every penny? Cheers!
Now I had finally time to watch the whole interview, what a great 👍 interview. Kudos to Richard for answering the unknown and you, David!
As so many boaters complain about, weeds and overgrown areas, can’t the boaters be recruited volunteers and take care of sections they come by ?? Take a rake, get the weeds out. Or would you think that would do damage?
Overall great questions, my magic wand 🪄 wish, would’ve been “ unlimited funds” for the canal’s!!! Have a great day David and as always looking forward to your next vlog !
Wish granted in my opinion, well done Dave and Richard...
Great interview.
All users of the CRT facilities be it on water or land, should feel privileged to have such a wonderful asset at their disposal.
Respect what you have and it will reward you in so many ways.
I am 64 and have been lucky enough to have visited many places in the world, but my 3 week canal cruise is the one I cherish the most.
Greetings from South Africa.
A wonderful asset at our disposal? Surely you are talking bout David!
Thank you David for a brilliant interview. The questions were well positioned and provided a balance between now and the future of the canal system. Regardless of the umbrella perspective this is no easy task to manage a system with so many needs or expectations and as many points of views. Bravo for trying to pin him to specifics while offering avenues for his vision.
The interview was informative and courteous despite the sensitivity of some of the issues. Well done on taking the initiative David and well done on Richard taking up the invitation - I though he kept focussed on each issue and was not passing off blame when there was blame to be attached. An incredibly difficult job to balance the competing interests of grant-givers, fee-payers, users and 'owners'. Very helpful.
Well done both. Kudos,😁