Richard Sadler, LR chief executive says the shipping industry needs a united voice to tackle the threat of regional regulation.
News from Posidonia tends to be driven by the big players and one of the biggest is classification society Lloyd’s Register. Chief executive Richard Sadler once again addressed a very personal project – the need for a co-ordinated voice for the shipping industry.
The shipping industry needs a single voice to be better represented at international level, he said because the alternative is not just ignorance but the direct threat of regional regulation, fashioned by those without an understanding of shipping’s unique role.
It’s not a new idea but if his plan gets off the ground it could act as a super-group, bringing together the industry’s myriad associations.
“Our vital industry needs to better protect and promote itself against repeated reactive, and increasingly regional, governance while still encouraging the innovation that we need,” he said.
Lloyd’s Register used Posidonia week to hold its Hellenic Advisory Committee and chairman Panagiotis Tsakos, concluded proceedings by talking about the importance of investing in the seafarers of the future, and the potential for young people to come into the industry.
“At a time of crisis, perhaps there are now some opportunities. There are fewer Greeks going to sea today, with fewer seafarers our technical and management skills will decline. At a time when the economic situation is so uncertain, the potential of careers at sea could be welcomed by the young today.”