February 25, 2009
Note: Much of the highlighted text in this newsletter constitutes links to Internet sites providing more detailed information. Links on this page may be in PDF format, requiring use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. If links become broken (generally due to length of URL), it is recommended that you go to our Web site – Bryant’s Maritime Blog – which contains the same information in HTML format.
ITA – European trade mission
The International Trade Administration (ITA) issued a notice stating that it is organizing a trade mission to Germany, Belgium, and Italy during the period May 4-8. The program will focus on port safety and security, port logistics and infrastructure, port environment, and European maritime policies. US companies interested in participating should submit their applications by March 16. 74 Fed. Reg. 8383 (February 25, 2009).
MARAD – credit assistance for surface transportation projects
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) issued a notice stating that the proposed rulemaking and request for comments regarding credit assistance for surface transportation projects has been withdrawn to allow for review by the Obama Administration. 74 Fed. Reg. 8383 (February 25, 2009).
FERC – Dominion Cove Point LNG – proposed upgrade
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a notice stating that it received an application from Dominion Cove Point LNG, LLP seeking authorization to upgrade, modify, and expand the existing offshore pier at its terminal in Calvert County, Maryland so as to better handle the next generation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels now coming into service. Comments on this application should be submitted by March 10. 74 Fed. Reg. 8383 (February 25, 2009).
Access Board – meeting
The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board), will meet in Washington, DC on March 16-18. Among other things, the Board will receive the Passenger Vessel Ad Hoc Committee Report. 74 Fed. Reg. 8383 (February 25, 2009).
FMC – meeting
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) issued a corrected agenda for its meeting scheduled for February 25 in Washington, DC. 74 Fed. Reg. 8383 (February 25, 2009).
Galveston – tanker refloated
The US Coast Guard issued a press release stating that the tanker that grounded off Galveston over the weekend has been refloated. There were no injuries and no pollution. No damage has been reported to the tanker. The incident is under investigation. (2/24/09).
DOJ – ship operator sentenced to pay $1.75 million
The Department of Justice issued a news release stating that the operator of a cargo ship was sentenced to pay a criminal fine of $1.75 million and implement an environmental compliance program after pleading guilty to conspiracy and to falsifying the ship’s oil record book. Two engineers from the ship had previously pleaded guilty and been sentenced to fines and probation. (2/24/09).
Bill introduced to provide for enhanced State authority for coastal resources
Representative Scalise (R-LA) introduced a bill (H.R. 1108) to provide for State enhanced authority for coastal and ocean resources, expansion of America's supply of natural gas and oil, and for other purposes. (2/23/09).
IMO – blanking of bilge discharge piping systems in port
The IMO issued a circular reminding Member Governments that blanking of bilge discharge piping systems in port is not in contravention of SOLAS regulation II-1/21 and can create a dangerous situation for the vessel. Member Governments are invited to bring this information to the attention of port state control officers. MSC-MEPC.4/Circ.3 (12/19/08).
IMO – updated categorization of liquid substances
The IMO issued a circular forwarding an updated provisional categorization of liquid substances. This 66-page circular supersedes and replaces all earlier listings of this nature. MEPC.2/Circ.14 (12/17/08).
IMO – meeting of Contact Group on Piracy
The IMO issued a news release stating that Secretary-General Efthimios Mitropoulos hosted the first meeting of the Working Group set up by the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia (CGPCS) and charged with considering modalities for operational coordination and information-sharing. A second Working Group, charged with strengthening of shipping’s self-awareness and other capabilities, will meet at the IMO Headquarters on February 26-27. (2/24/09).
Panama Canal – SAGA ROSE on final round-the-world cruise
The Panama Canal Authority issued a press release stating that the cruise ship SAGA ROSE transited the Panama Canal as part of its final round-the-world cruise. This is the ship’s 44th global tour, more than any cruise ship in history. It is scheduled to retire in December 2009. (2/23/09).
If you have questions regarding the above items, please contact the editor:
Dennis L. Bryant
Bryant’s Maritime Blog
4845 SW 91st Way
Gainesville, FL 32608-8135
USA
1-352-692-5493
<a href=mailto:dennis.l.bryant@gmail.com>dennis.l.bryant@gmail.com</a>
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