MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR OFFERS SUPPORT FOR SAFETY COUNCIL

MARITIME ADMINISTRATOR OFFERS SUPPORT FOR SAFETY COUNCIL    U.S. Maritime Administrator William Schubert expressed support for an advisory group focusing on recommendations to improve America’s maritime transportation system.
   During a two-day session in New Orleans this week, the Maritime Transportation System National Advisory Council endorsed the work of its SEA-21 working group, and said it would finalize its recommendations by the end of this Month.
   “The council wants to work on the specific language of their recommendations to make sure they are as clear and productive as possible,” Schubert said.
   MARAD said most of the recommendations from the draft focus on security, in addition to defining jurisdictions and responsibilities, and emphasizing information systems to screen ships. Other recommendations in the draft include infrastructure investment, automation identification technology systems for cargo tracking, and ballast water standards.
   MTSNAC is a chartered, non-federal body that advises the Transportation Secretary on marine transport issues. Its membership is comprised of leaders from over 30 commercial transportation firms, trade associations, state and local public entities and environmental groups.