The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has been outlining its support for the shipping industry, which is estimated to be worth £5 billion to the UK economy.
Sir Alan Massey, Chief Executive of the MCA , has been setting out how the Agency is striving to become the best maritime safety organisation in the world, and in turn offering as much support as possible to the industry.
In a speech last night to Maritime London, including industry leaders, lawyers, ship owners and operators, Sir Alan said: “We know that the shipping industry looks for a level playing field to compete fairly in a tough economic climate. You are right to demand high regulatory standards, applied consistently by our Marine Surveyors and Port State Control Officers.”
The MCA is now actively working to improve its processes, reduce red tape and make things quicker and less complicated.
During the speech, Sir Alan also made it clear that the MCA will take action if needed: “There will be of course be times when shipping companies or seafarers fall short of standards of behavior that we all demand in the interests of safety and protecting the marine environment.”
“We owe it to the good operators and the safety-conscious seafarer to take firm action against those who are letting the industry down.”
Through collaborative working and mutual support, the MCA aims to help the maritime sector in the UK, and ensure it can be a key engine for economic growth.
Sir Alan concluded the speech with a rallying message to all involved with the shipping industry: “We are on your side. Please be on ours!”
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MCA, October 31, 2012