IBIA Gains IMO Consultative Status

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) gained Consultative Status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). IBIA's status has been confirmed by IMO's Council after IBIA received formal recommendation from the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) at its meeting in 2005. Don Gregory, chairman of IBIA, says: "IBIA has rapidly developed in stature and influence and has enjoyed steady growth in membership since its formation 10 years ago. We have much to offer the IMO in terms of expertiseon issues which concern bunkering. Safety and the environment are vital priorities for our membership and form a significant keystone in our association's remit." Ian Adams, IBIA secretary general, says: "Global and regional legislators have been drawing upon our membership's expertise for several years now and IBIA is at the forefront of alerting and advising the bunker industry on developments that affect the industry. Consultative Status with the IMO allows us closer observation of the legislative decision making processes and will enable us to inform our membership about new developments even more quickly. One topic which we shall be raising at IMO is the issue of test precision, in an effort to make the application of existing and future rules simpler and clearer."