Maritime Administrator Praises Work To Improve Security, Efficiency

Maritime Administrator Captain William G. Schubert praised progress being made by an advisory group on recommendations to improve the nation's marine transportation system and enhance its security. During a two-day session in New Orleans that concluded Tuesday, the Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council (MTSNAC) endorsed the work of its SEA-21 working group and said it planned to finalize its recommendations by the end of July.

"The council wants to work on the specific language of their recommendations to make sure they are as clear and productive as possible,” said Administrator Schubert. “We certainly appreciate the efforts of all involved.” The largest group of the draft recommendations focuses on security. They include defining jurisdictions and responsibilities, implementing landside and waterside access controls, emphasizing information systems to screen ships, and establishing international maritime security standards. Other recommendations address:

An integrated approach to infrastructure investment, including inland waterways infrastructure improvements;

Standards for automated identification technology systems for cargo and equipment tracking;

Career promotion and job security to ensure a stable and qualified workforce;

Ballast water standards; and

Efforts to streamline the process for implementing marine transportation system projects.