Sekimizu 'keen to implement' industry proposals at next MEPC

Sekimizu addressed widespread industry dissatisfaction with the outcome of Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 66, speaking at the Seatrade Awards dinner on Monday.

“The week before last, we organized the Marine Environment Protection Committee 66. We were not satisfied with the outcome of the MEPC – in particular, dealing with the concerns raised by the shipping industry.

“In my view the government has recognised issues raised by the shipping industry. But I understand the shipping industry will provide significant proposals before the next MEPC. I am really looking forward to following this innovation, and am keen to implement it within IMO.

“In the meantime I maintain my position - to encourage government to ratify the BWM convention so that the convention will come into force. In particular, in 2016 we want to improve its application to existing vessels.”

The response comes after numerous industry organisations called for changes to be made in the BWM convention, including stricter rules on type-approvals and less aggressive port state control mechanisms. The next meeting, MEPC 67, is to take place in October 2014.

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