IMO To Hold Workshop For Building Good Maritime Security In The South Pacific

The good maritime and port security enables maritime and economic development through maritime trade. When it works, it can be taken for granted, but maintaining good security is essential. In the support of this, IMO and the South Pacific Community, in collaboration with the Government of Vanuatu, are holding a Regional Maritime Security Workshop in Port Vila, Vanuatu between 22-25 July.

The workshop coincides with IMO Secretary General Kitack Lim’s visit to Vanuatu, Fiji and Australia – the first time an IMO Secretary General visits the South Pacific (photos).

Heads of Designated Authorities and port facility security officers (PFSOs) from 14 countries will come together in the regional workshop and will discuss ways to cooperate at the national level to provide the necessary support required in order to take ownership of the implementation and compliance with the provisions of IMO’s maritime security regime, including SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Several port operators are also attending. Participants will improve their knowledge and to perform maritime security duties, as well as acquiring the knowledge and skills to train others with similar responsibilities.

The first two days aim to provide PFSOs with essential knowledge, confidence and tools to be able to address nonconformities that are commonly identified during security audits and assessment. This includes carrying out of risk assessments, coordinating drills and exercises, and delivering security training.

The last two days bring together the Heads of Maritime Administrations and PFSOs to review implementation of maritime security instruments in the region, share best practices and experiences, promote cooperation between port and designated authorities, identify challenges and propose solutions for effective and coordinated implementation of maritime security at the national level. The workshop will include testing a a verification manual – a new tool for officials of the Designated Authorities under the ISPS Code.

Guest speakers from the US Coast Guard International Port Security Programme, as well as Australia’s Maritime Safety Agency and Maritime New Zealand are also at the workshop.

Reference: imo.org

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