Cyprus MEP hails package of measures for maritime sector

Cyprus MEP Ioannis Kasoulides (Democratic Rally, European Popular Party) hailed the package of measures for the maritime sector that was approved by the plenary session of the European Parliament on Wednesday.

“On behalf of the EPP I would like to congratulate Mr Sterckx for his report and express our full support,” Kasoulides told the EP session.

“On the issue of shelters, we agree that it is necessary to regulate the matter properly within the whole of the Union, as it is considered quite easy – and has happened in the past – that EU member states have the tendency to push out of their waters vessels that may be in danger, and in particular the oil tankers,” Kasoulides said.

“This happens due to the fear of a potential disaster and pollution. It has been proven, however, that the greatest of ecological disasters may be avoided when vessels that are in danger and with limited damages can resort to pre-determined small harbours where they can be provided with shelter from sea storms,” he said.

“The report also deals with another significant maritime safety parameter and the avoidance of accidents, that is the linking of systems in order to achieve more comprehensive information and better communications.”

Kasoulides concluded that, “within the general discussion for maritime issues, the EU is proceeding with the right incentives to introduce regulations to improve the protection and the safety of the maritime sector, the protection of the environment both of the seas and the coasts, and the protection of the rights of passengers.”

“What I would like to see is a simultaneous effort on behalf of the EU on a worldwide level, where it has an important role as a global players, for the introduction of similar measures at an international level. The competitors to the European maritime industry should not be allowed to take advantage of our weaknesses top the detriment of the competitiveness of the European Union merchant fleet,” he said.