By
Rebecca Gibson |
The IMO has sanctioned proposals to restructure its sub-committees to ensure that the technical and operational issues covered by IMO regulations continue to be addressed in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
The recommendations form part of a review process initiated by IMO Secretary-General Koji Sekimizu and were considered during the IMO’s 109th session by its main technical committees, the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) and the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC). The previous structural reform was held in the 1996-1997 biennium and saw the number of sub-committees reduced from eleven to nine.
Under the suggested structure, the number of IMO sub-committees could be reduced from nine to seven, which could save four meeting weeks per biennium. Several of the existing sub-committees will be renamed and have a direct focus, whilst others will be amalgamated to provide a more comprehensive service. The proposed changes are summarised below.
The Sub-Committee on Bulk Liquids and Gases (BLG) would be renamed the Sub-Committee on the Environment, focusing exclusively on all environment-related matters.
The Sub-Committee on Dangerous Goods, Solid Cargoes and Containers (DSC) would be renamedthe Sub-Committee on Cargoes and address both wet and dry cargo issues.
As it has become increasingly involved with issues connected to the operation of IMO instruments in port and coastal states, as well as flag states, the Sub-Committee on Flag State Implementation (FSI) would be known as the Sub-Committee on Implementation.
The Ship Design and Equipment, Fire Protection, and Stability, Load Lines and Fishing Vessel Safety Sub-Committees would be amalgamated into two new technical sub-committees: one focused on ship design, stability and related codes, and the other addressing fire safety and life-saving equipment issues.
Similarly, the Sub-Committee on Radiocommunications, Search and Rescue (COMSAR) and the Sub-Committee on Navigation (NAV) would form a single sub-committee, due to the increasing commonality of their work.
However, not all of the sub-committees will be affected by the proposals. The Sub-Committee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping will remain the same for the foreseeable future.