FMC will focus on port congestion in 2015

Agency is also planning a February discussion of environmental issues at ports.    Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Mario Cordero says that his priority for the agency this year is addressing the congestion issues plaguing U.S. ports.
   Last year the FMC led several public forums concerning port congestion and international supply chain efficiency issues.
   “Among the Commission’s statutory goals is the assurance of an efficient ocean transportation system. The efficient operation of the Nation’s ports is squarely within that mandate and paramount to the Commission’s responsibilities,” he said. “As we move forward, I look forward to a thorough review of the issues and views that have been provided from various maritime industry stakeholders. The FMC will continue its role in protecting the shipping public and addressing unreasonable or unjust practices by carriers or marine terminal operators.”
   FMC also said Wednesday that officials from major U.S. ports will participate in its third annual Port Environmental Initiatives Forum to be held Feb. 20 at its offices in Washington. Kurt Nagle, president of the American Association of Port Authorities will moderate a panel that will focus on cooperation among competing neighbor ports and terminals to achieve environmental benefits in their surrounding communities under the authority of the Shipping Act of 1984. Officials from the ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York/New Jersey, Seattle and Tacoma have been invited.