E.U. says Maritime Industry Needs Oversight

Published Jul 28, 2005 12:01 AM by The Maritime Executive

As far as the E.U. is concerned, the maritime community should expect it to continue its regional initiatives and its involvement in the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

"The global maritime industry has a reputation of huge problems in managing worldwide fleets," said the head of the EC's Maritime Policy Task Force, John B Richardson.

The E.U. raised a lot of eyebrows when it unilaterally accelerated the ban on single-hulled oil tankers within its waters following the high profile Erika oil tanker casualty off the coast of France. This action was seen by many as subverting the International Maritime Organization's authority. However, the IMO accepted the E.U.'s position and agreed to the phase out schedule.

"The E.U. is a large player in global maritime issues, and when the public perceives that the IMO isn't working fast enough to address issues like single-hull tanker phase outs, it's a safe bet that we will take unilateral actions to protect our waterways," Richardson said.

The E.U.'s Maritime Policy Task Force is currently working on a report concerning global shipping in its ports and waterways and intends to present it to the entire European Commission later this year. Look for the E.U. to begin establishing its own policies regarding maritime commerce.