In the third quarter of last year, for example, both South Africa and Namibia refused requests for shelter. The casualties were the general cargo vessel Ikan Tanda and the bulk carrier Bishmihita La (both LOF/SCOPIC operations). These vessels were eventually scuttled off the South African coast.

A third case occurred in the Indian Ocean following the abandonment of the vessel Buff Bay. Requests for shelter, made to Mauritius and La Reunion, were again refused.

ISU President Jean Labescat, a speaker at the seawork2002 Conference, said: 'Such behaviour on the part of governments is unacceptable.

In our view, failure to act promptly and grant immediate refuge places lives, the environment and property at risk.

'Public concern over marine pollution has escalated following the Erika and other high profile casualties. Governments should recognise the public interest and act responsibly. It is not enough just to be concerned with the rescue of the casualty's crew, although this is the first priority, ' he said 'When a vessel has been abandoned, the salvage team trying to prevent pollution can be put at risk by a refusal to grant shelter. The safety of the salvage team must also be taken into account. Decisions on requests for refuge should be arrived at through a proper risk analysis, with the focus on the salvage plan, the vessel and her cargo.'

The IMO is working to develop a set of guidelines on places of refuge for ship casualties.

Next month the IMO's Safety of Navigation Subcommittee will review the issue and progress work on the guidelines.

Jean Labascat concluded, 'We fully support the IMO's efforts in developing guidelines on this sensitive subject. The ISU firmly believes that these guidelines should contain clauses that prevent coastal states refusing entry without completing a formal procedure that involves a proper risk assessment.'

MJ Information No: 17185