SLASPA engages in efforts to implement solutions for maritime sector

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 – The Division of Maritime Affairs of the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), met with tourism and maritime stakeholders Tuesday, at a symposium held to discuss the way forward for the maritime and shipping sector.

Director of Maritime Affairs at SLASPA, Christopher Alexander, says the symposium of shipping regulations addressed the requirements of the dynamic maritime industry, and the standards which are set at the national level, in accordance with international requirements.

Mr. Alexander says the national symposium is one of SLASPA's main initiatives to find and implement solutions for the maritime sector.

“It took us years to establish these regulations and the attorney general's office was instrumental in assisting us in that regard. SLASPA is looking forward in terms of pushing the maritime sector ahead. Our concern at SLASPA is safety of vessels, safety of persons and the maritime environment,” Alexander said.

“We are hoping to increase safety awareness. Persons attending the symposium to are provided with an opportunity to voice their concerns and get to better understand the regulations.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Titus Preville, says shipping plays an important role in the economic development of Saint Lucia, and as such any disruptions at Saint Lucia’s ports of entry or waters, due to lack of regulations, could be detrimental to the country.

“The Saint Lucia Shipping Act, which contains provisions for the licensing of ships, matters pertaining to crew, safety of life at sea and other matters, are there to form primary legislation and provide a basis for the subsequent legislation such as the shipping regulations being discussed here today. The regulations down for discussion are registration of ships, safety of pleasure vessels, distress signals, collision, and of course, fees.”

The symposium on shipping regulation was held on Tuesday March 9, at the NIC conference centre.

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