MarAd seeks comments on LNG trade

MarAd seeks comments on LNG trade The U.S. Maritime Administration is asking for comments regarding development of programs to maximize the use of U.S. vessels and seafarers on liquefied natural gas tankers trading internationally.
   In a notice in today's Federal Register, MarAd said comments may also include issues related to the overall safe and secure operation of deepwater port facilities. It asked that comments be submitted by Feb. 16.
   In December, U.S. Maritime Administrator Sean T. Connaughton and representatives from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and U.S. Maritime Academy attended a press conference where a company planning to operate a LNG terminal off the coast of Massachusetts said it was looking to employ U.S. seafarers on its ships.
   Joseph McKechnie, senior vice president, shipping, SUEZ Energy North America, said his company would seek to make U.S. seafarers 'part of the crew mix on our existing fleet' as well as ships it acquires in the future.