President of the Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association of Jamaica (CBFFAJ), Donovan Wignall (third left), presents a token to Derrick Smith, minister of national security, at the Customs Department information fair, which was held on January 26, at the 'Dump-up' beach in Montego Bay. Others looking on are (from left) Rosemarie Spence, executive member Williams, executive secretary; Susan Neil, assistant treasurer; Ivis Scott, customs broker; Elaine Woodley-Williams, vice-president.- Contributed

The Isthmus Bureau of Shipping (IBS) has been appointed to act on behalf of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) in the conduct of statutory surveys on Jamaican registered vessels. The official signing of the agreement took place on January 30 at the corporate office of the MAJ.

The Isthmus Bureau of Shipping (IBS) is based in Panama. The society is one of a growing number of 'recognised organisations' responsible for providing flag state services to maritime administrations globally.

Prior to the acceptance of the IBS to work on its behalf, the organisation was audited by personnel from the MAJ as part of the administration's compliance with international guidelines established by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Flag-state responsibilities

After the completion of the audit, the MAJ was satisfied that IBS operations were on par with international standards. Hence, the nod of approval was given to the IBS.

The signing of the official agreement between the MAJ makes IBS the 'recognised organisation' charged with carrying out flag-state responsibilities on behalf of Jamaica. Alex Orillac, managing director of the IBS, signed for the IBS, while Rear Admiral Peter Brady, director general of the MAJ signed for Jamaica.

The agreement signals Jamaica's intention to strengthen its ability to perform its flag-state responsibilities in real time wherever its vessels are located. It also represents a redoubling of efforts to ensure that all vessels are maintained in accordance with IMO regulations and other relevant safety, security and pollution-prevention standards.