BRADY

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is pleased that this year the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has chosen to focus on the theme of cooperation. The MAJ is cognisant of the necessity of this concept to propel the shipping industry forward, not only on an international level but also locally.

Shipping, as we know, is a global network, intricately woven with providers and consumers of many and varied services. Without cooperation, the volume and magnitude of the business that takes place in the industry would not be possible.

As the focal point locally for the IMO, the MAJ acknowledges its work to build the capacity of its member-states through its technical cooperation programmes worldwide. In declaring its contribution to the Millennium Declaration by the General Assembly of the United Nations with regard to key challenges facing humanity, the IMO has chosen to highlight its contribution as reflected in the IMO's theme for World Maritime Day, Thursday, September 28, 'Technical Cooperation: IMO's response to the 2005 World Summit'.

Benefits

Indeed, Jamaica and the region have benefited greatly from the IMO's technical cooperation programmes. The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) has been both recipient and benefactor, being host to many IMO regional training programmes that have resulted in the creation of a skills bank regionally of persons trained in maritime safety, security and marine pollution prevention. Additionally, the MAJ has been called upon to provide expertise in the region, assisting our neighbours in matters such as the establishment of maritime administrations, training and port state control activities.

Fruits of cooperation

Locally we have seen the fruits of this cooperation manifesting itself in the vision of Jamaica becoming a shipping centre. Over a relatively short period of time, Jamaica has been able to establish services such as international ship registration, bunkering and a logistics distribution centre. There has been tremendous growth in trans-shipment and implementation of a first-class port-state control regime, to name a few. Additional services that are being explored include marine insurance, ship financing, ship management and dry docking.

The growth in the industry has been positive, and all indications are that this will only increase as we continue to cooperate to achieve the vision. The MAJ has worked closely with its counterpart organisations and colleagues, in our short period of existence, to contribute to the development of shipping. We will continue to work tirelessly to see Jamaica take its place among the bustling maritime states of the world.

PETER BRADY

Rear Admiral (Ret'd.)

Director General

Maritime Authority of Jamaica