MCA publishes Our Plans for 2009-10

It sets out Ministerial Targets and priorities for the MCA this business year. The MCA’s ‘Three Year Themes’, now in their second year, identify some key areas it plans to tackle.

As part of its work towards tackling seafarer fatigue, MCA surveyors will be taking a critical look at the hours of work/rest records during surveys and inspections to ensure legislation is being adhered to. It will implement dedicated inspection teams for Small Fishing Vessels to help improve safety and, in both cases, anyone found failing to meet safety standards can expect the Agency to take prompt and tough action.

Peter Cardy, chief executive of the MCA said, ‘Our targets are challenging but practical, and reflect my wish to work with the shipping and fishing industries to improve standards of safety. Seafarer fatigue is well known to be the root of many accidents at sea, and fishing still represents one of the most dangerous occupations within the UK. MCA staff are dedicated to improving safety standards and the high level of professionalism that exists through the Agency is envied worldwide. My role is to lead the Agency as we work in partnership to deliver measurable and substantive improvements to these industries that we care so passionately about. Our inspections will check safety standards and we will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary’.

The MCA is also a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities. Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK maritime sector. For further information visit: www.seavisionuk.org

The MCA’s ‘Our Plans for 2009-10’ leaflet is available at http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/newsandpublications/mcga-publications/mcga-oce-plans_08-09.htm