Continuing the long-standing cooperation between the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association - HELMEPA and the US Coast Guard, the annual meeting of the USCG leadership and members of the Association took place online (due to Covid-19 restrictions), on Wednesday 14 December 2022, maintaining an open dialogue and highlighting areas of mutual interest and concern. Specifically, Rear Admiral Wayne Arguin, USCG Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy, addressed 65 representatives of HELMEPA member-managing companies covering all contemporary issues on foreign-flag vessels trading in the US, such as crew wellness and alternative fuels, control of ship discharges through the forthcoming Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA), ballast water management and biofouling, new technologies and cybersecurity, replying to all their questions.
HELMEPA - US Coast Guard engagement for the better preparation of seafarers and vessels
Welcoming RADM Arguin, HELMEPA’s Chairperson, Mrs Semiramis Paliou thanked the USCG for this valuable cooperation, which aims at assisting HELMEPA members prepare for smooth and successful PSC examinations and seafarers to better understand the US PSC process and expectations. On the other hand, companies and seafarers-members are provided with the opportunity to put forward to the leadership of the US Coast Guard problems they may encounter when trading in US waters that may hinder compliance with regulations. The result of this special relationship which benefits all is enhanced safety, security and environmental stewardship.
The bilateral dialogue was coordinated by Messrs Panos Zachariadis, member of HELMEPA’s Board of Directors and Constantinos Triantafyllou, Head of Strategy and Development. The meeting was concluded with the wish that the next meeting in 2023 takes place once again in physical presence, at the USCG HQs, in Washington D.C.
