U.S.-flag Great Lakes carriers implement ship security program

U.S.-flag Great Lakes carriers implement ship security program    The U.S.-flag carriers are implementing a Coast Guard-approved shipboard security program to bring them into compliance with the 2002 Maritime Transportation Security Act.
   “None of the dry-bulk cargoes carried on the Great Lakes are considered hazardous,” said James H.I. Weakley, president of the Cleveland-based Lake Carriers’ Association, which leads the development of the so-called “Alternative Security Program for Great Lakes Dry-Bulk Carriers.”
   “Our security measures primarily reflect the need to protect crewmembers, our waterways and the general public while keeping cargo moving on schedule,” he said.
   The Lake Carriers’ Association declined to reveal details of its security program, citing compliance with the federal government’s security sensitive information rules. However, the program will apply to nearly all significant U.S.-flag cargo vessels operating on the Great Lakes today.
   “Virtually every large U.S.-flag freighter on the Great Lakes is a member of Lake Carriers’ Association,” Weakley said. “Therefore, shipboard security measures will be consistent throughout the region,' he added. 'There are also discussions between the United States Coast Guard and Transport Canada regarding bi-national aspects of Great Lakes shipping.”
   The Lake Carriers’ Association has 14 operator members, representing 53 U.S.-flag ships. These companies transport about 115 million tons of iron ore, coal and limestone for the domestic steel, power generation and construction industries.