Stephen Meyer News

Washington, D.C. —The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced that it has appointed a panel of maritime and safety experts to provide an impartial assessment of the recommendations developed by the Cruise Industry Operational Safety Review, launched in January, 2012. This Panel of Experts will evaluate suggested policy improvements as part of continuous efforts to review and improve safety measures by developing comprehensive best practices for industry-wide implementation and. ultimately, formal submission to the International Maritime Organization, as appropriate. “Our number one priority is the safety of passengers and crew,” said Christine Duffy, President and CEO of CLIA.

Four shipping industry companies and organisations have been honoured for their outstanding contributions to maritime safety. The third annual Safety at Sea International Awards were presented June 10 at a banquet in Oslo in recognition of excellence in programmes, products and services that encourage and promote safety in the maritime environment. Prizes were awarded in four categories: equipment, systems, training and management/operations. In addition, a special AMVER (Automated Mutual-assistance Vessel Rescue System) award was given to pay homage to bravery and seamanship in assisting those in peril on the sea. The awards ceremony was moderated by Paul Gunton…

Shipping Minister David Jamieson has announced the appointment of a new Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents following an open competition. Stephen Meyer will take up his three-year appointment on August 1 2002 in succession to Rear Admiral John Lang who is retiring. The Chief Inspector heads the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), the independent body responsible for investigating maritime accidents involving U.K. flagged vessels anywhere in the world and foreign flagged casualties in U.K. waters. "Mr Lang has raised the profile of the MAIB and in doing so has made mariners and others more aware of the hazards they face. I have…