Coast Guard Commandant ADM Thad Allen Addresses Potential Legislation to Transfer Maritime Safety D

Published Jul 12, 2007 12:01 AM by The Maritime Executive

Internal correspondence to all Coast Guard sectors & commands reinforces Coast Guard opposition to the concept

Subj: Maritime Safety -- Multiple Benefits of a Multimission Coast Guard

(A) Commandants Intent-Sitrep 3 on 25 May 07

1. You may have seen an article recently published in an international shipping trade magazine Tradewinds reporting potential legislation being considered to transfer the maritime safety duties and authorities of the Coast Guard to a new federal agency in another department. No legislation has been introduced by Congress. However, it's important that you understand where I stand on any such proposal. This is not in the best interest of the Coast Guard or the nation. I am committed to preserving our longstanding role as the world's leader in maritime safety and am working with Congress to ensure we maintain our current maritime safety duties and authorities. One of our greatest strengths is our multimission character which provides the best value to the American public. While I'm confident others will see it this way as well, I also realize that we need to be open to critiques of the service that we provide to the nation and our professional mariners.

2. I recently met with a group of maritime industry leaders to discuss these concerns. Specifically, maritime industry leaders and associations have commented about the professionalism and expertise of our marine inspectors and boarding teams, access to Coast Guard leadership in our ports, and a rigid adherence to strict practices and protocols when alternative means for compliance may prove more beneficial within existing authorities. As professional mariners and federal officials, it is our duty to consider this feedback objectively as we continually strive to balance strong enforcement of our regulatory duties with working collaboratively with our maritime industry partners to facilitate the safe, secure and efficient flow of commerce.

3. I will make every effort to ensure that decision makers and national leaders understand the value the Coast Guard brings to maritime safety and the absolute necessity to retain these duties within the Coast Guard. As Coast Guard leaders, I need you to continue to actively seek additional opportunities to engage industry leaders on these and other issues important to them. In the context of explaining our ongoing efforts to modernize the Coast Guard and the true value of our entire mission set, be attentive to industry's concerns. Our decisions and actions have direct impacts on their businesses and their workforce. The maritime transportation system is the engine that drives our nation's economy. Although we are not bound to act in accordance with every concern expressed by our industry partners, we should always be informed by them. In some instances, minor changes in the way we approach our duties, which in no way compromise our safety, security, or stewardship duties, can have significant benefits in generating goodwill while reinforcing partnerships that are so key to achieving our mutual objectives.

4. Your active outreach is a critical part of CG mission execution. Keep the dialogue going and share your best practices with each other and your senior leadership. Our success as America's lifesavers and guardians depends upon our ability to engage, listen, and act appropriately. America's maritime transportation system is one of the largest and most complex in the world. It is also one of the safest and most efficient due to the dedicated efforts of each of you in close partnership with our maritime industry and government partners.

5. Internet Release Authorized.

6. ADM Thad Allen, Commandant, Sends.