Denmark sets up shared pilotage group
The Danish Maritime Authority, INTERTANKO and INTERCARGO have mutually agreed to establish a joint pilotage user group to discuss and improve the piloting of vessels through narrow Baltic straits such the Great Belt and the Sound.
'The background of this industry-government initiative relates to the concerns expressed by the Danish Maritime Authority regarding the difficulties surrounding navigation in Danish waters,' INTERTANKO said in a statement.
Denmark has asked 'that a wide range of international shipping associations urge their members to take a pilot when they enter or leave the Baltic Sea, as recommended by resolution MSC.138(76) of the International Maritime Organization,' INTERTANKO explained.
Because the IMO rule is only a recommendation, 'it is not possible to enforce pilotage in the area. Nevertheless, INTERTANKO and INTERCARGO have reviewed this request by the Danish Maritime Authority, and have agreed to support it,' INTERTANKO noted.
Denmark sets up shared pilotage group
