EC proposes EU-wide port security program

EC proposes EU-wide port security program    The European Commission today proposed a new European-wide framework to enhance port security and complement existing international commitments.
   The Brussels-based executive believes that ports in general already address security issues, but “they do this in a hitherto uncoordinated way which inevitably leads to a less-than-best use of resources and experience.”
   In line with international commitments, the recently approved system of maritime security only covers the vessels themselves and the terminal areas of the ports, the EC noted. “Ports, however, go far beyond this relatively narrow strip of land; they are vulnerable in all their constituent parts,” it added.
   The EC plan includes the following proposals:
   * Ports should carry out a security assessment to decide what security measures are required, where and when;
   * Ports should establish a port security plan which outlines all measures and details for enhancing port security;
   * A port security officer who co-ordinates security measures should be nominated;
   * A security authority should be identified for supervising security measures and establishing the links between the political level and security measures on the ground;
   * And different security levels should be established.
   “Ports are particularly vulnerable parts of the logistics chain,” the EC said in a statement.
   The EC’s new proposal aims at complementing the security system by ensuring that all European port areas benefit from a Europe-wide security scheme. The EC said it wants to avoid a fragmentation of security efforts, and ensure comprehensive security coverage with minimal additional burdens for ports and port users.
   “With this proposal we are aiming to raise another important piece of the community’s defenses against intentional illegal acts”, said Loyola de Palacio, vice-president of the European Commission, responsible for transport and energy.