Regulation

The Panama Registry has asserted its commitment to all investigations in spite of accusations otherwise from Nautilus International.

Nautilus accused the flag state of not issuing a report based on the loss of livestock carrier Danny F II in December 2009 off the coast of Lebanon.

The European Union remains undecided regarding the validity of Filipino seafarer certification, a decision which “will have huge implications for the labour supply of European Union-flagged vessels.”

The registries of Liberia, Panama and the Marshall Islands have each signed a declaration to report information to the International Maritime Bureau regarding incidents of violence at sea.

SeaTask Director Bob Katsamas has expressed concern about an ambiguity within German flag regulations that is allowing owners to benefit from both the German tonnage tax system and other registries.

Cunard has made an historic decision to switch their cruise ships' registry from the United Kingdom to Bermuda. The ISRR considers possible reasons for the change.

UK Parliament Member Matthew Offord has expressed support for Turkey lifting its embargo on Cypriot-flagged and owned vessels.

As the continued issue of piracy increases the use of armed guards onboard vessels in response, the need for coordinating international guidelines has also escalated.

Managing director of ship manager ESA Group and recent Lloyd’s List Italian Shipping Award Winner Gian Enzo Duci spoke with us regarding his views on the Italian maritime industry.

ESA ship management leader Gian Enzo Duci has advised the Italian Government to invest more in its flag in order to maintain business.

The managing director says that Italy's reduction in allocation of funds to its maritime sector as part of an effort to cut costs has resulted in a weaker support system for owners registered with the flag. Duci said:

In his address to delegates at the 14th Russian Register Seminar on Quality Shipping in St. Petersburg earlier this month, International Chamber of Shipping Director of External Relations Simon Bennett explained how shipowners and flag states have the ability to work together to ensure quality performance and commercial success.