Class societies and Greek administration in MLC squabble

The latest example of the problem is Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) compliance.

On 20 December, with just eight working days until MLC 2006 comes into force, on 4 January leading classification societies, including ABS, DNV GL and Lloyds Register, were still to sign the agreement with the Greek government, as flag state, covering the issuing of MLC 2006 compliance certificates.

The societies have strongly disagreed with some of the wording in the agreement drafted by the government which they consider an affront to their integrity.

Specifically objections are being raised regarding phrases in the document the government wants the societies to sign refers to the relationship between the class surveyor and the shipowner, or staff working with the shipowner. Indeed, a legal affidavit is being requested by the government as proof there is no relationship of any sort between the surveyor inspecting and issuing MLC certificates and the shipowning company.

Class societies maintain the wording is so specific, "it is impossible for us to agree to it and to sign MLC compliance certificates". One of the hold-outs said it "could involve checking on the background and relationships of thousands of our employees around the world". An amendment is being sought, but by 20 December no new draft had been presented, though one was promised.

The classification societies point out their own "quality systems and standards already prohibit a family or close relationship exist between surveyor and client". "This is a longstanding condition," said one Piraeus-based ceo.

Seatrade Global understands the inspections, in the main have been carried out and certificates prepared and can be signed by class, though they then have to be verified, put into electronic form and delivered to the ship and shipping office, a time-consuming chore.

It is also understood the problem with the agreement stems from it being drafted by the Labour ministry and not the Shipping and Aegean ministry. "People with no clue about shipping drafted the agreement without even consulting with the industry," said one source.

Another major administrative issue for class and shipping companies involves class acting as the Greek flag's RO. The government is yet to implement the new “Model Agreement” to cover classification societies working on its behalf and issuing the vast array of certificates covering ship operation, most of which takes place thousands miles away from Shipping ministry's Piraeus headquarters. This agreement, which runs for five years, expired on 7 November 7, and as of then class was officially no longer representing the Greek administration.

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