Editorial 01/05

January 15th, 2005 by JCB
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EDITORIAL

During a time normally reserved for festivities, the end of 2004 and the opening of 2005 was a tragic period with distressing images of death and destruction from Asia (and perhaps we should not forget Iraq) severely dampening the holiday mood. Our thoughts are with all those who may have suffered the loss of family or close friends.  In the world of pilotage the end of 2004 saw the decision by the unelected EU commissioners overturn the democratic vote of the Parliament and permit the outgoing transport commissioner Loyola de Palacio to reintroduce the previously rejected Ports Directive. The fight against this has already begun but the EU enlargement may mean that this is going to be a more difficult battle to win this time around. At least in this uphill battle we are supported by the UK Major Ports Group who are also vehemently opposed to the directive.

In the UK the Reviews of the Port Marine Safety Code and the 1987 Pilotage Act continue with the UKMPA representing the interests of pilots with the new team at the DfT. The MCA in its new role as the operational arm of the DfT in matters concerning maritime safety are also now involved.

Following the success of my decision last year to make the January issue the conference issue, this will now become a regular feature even though it means that I have to spend Christmas transcribing the conference tapes!!

Already, following the conference, there are indications that there is going to be resistance from the ports, not just in against legislation that may underpin the PMSC or the 1987 Act but also to the incorporation of pilotage standards into the Code. All the above topics are dealt with in detail in the magazine with latest news updates. 2005 is going to be another very challenging year for the Association so all members should pay careful attention to the debates.