MPA signs extension of MOU with ITOPF

MARITIME and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited (ITOPF) today announced a three-year extension to the memorandum of understanding for an agreed schedule of rates for clean-up operations according to the types of vessels and equipment used in responding to pollution incidents.

In line with efforts to enhance emergency preparedness and response, the renewed agreement will minimise disagreements, and claims settlements will be expedited.

The MoU on oil spill response equipment and vessel rates in Singapore was signed at The International Chemical and Oil Pollution Conference and Exhibition (ICOPCE), by MPA's portmaster, Capt Kevin Wong, and Richard Johnson, tech director, ITOPF, and witnessed by Capt M Segar, assistantt chief executive (Operations), MPA.

On April 28, multiple stakeholders - including government agencies, ship operators and emergency response teams - will come together for a joint chemical spill exercise that will test and demonstrate Singapore's readiness and capabilities in the event of such an occurrence.

Niam Chiang Meng, chairman of MPA, was the guest of honour at ICOPCE.

Mr Niam said: "While global oil and chemical spill incidence rates have declined since the 1970s, vigilance remains key, and all the more so given their transboundary impact.

"ICOPCE, along with other SMW events, provides the industry with the perfect platform for sharing of global best practices, towards safer and cleaner waters worldwide."