Monday, 15th April 2019

43rd session of the IMO Facilitation Committee

The International Group took a full and active role at the 43rd session of the Facilitation Committee that was held at the IMO’s headquarters in London on 8th – 12th April 2019.

In particular, the International Group presented updated data to the Committee on stowaway cases involving International Group Club entered vessels and noted in particular concerns about the way in which ISPS code requirements seem to be easily breached in certain jurisdictions, leading to a lack of ISPS Code enforcement resulting in ease of access for stowaways on board ships.

The International Group data was welcomed by the Committee, who thanked the International Group for continuing to contribute to the work of the IMO in support of its wider maritime safety and security agenda, and the wider maritime industry. The data presented previously by the International Group has resulted in actions being taken in certain jurisdictions to prevent stowaway embarkation in ports and it is hoped that the presentation of this updated data will result in further such measures being taken.