THE SHIPPING Association of Jamaica looks back at 2002 with a great sense of pride and fulfilment. The year presented numerous opportunities for the Association to embark on new avenues of development to support a viable local maritime industry. Most significantly, in a historic move, the SAJ widened its scope and extended its reach to include the western port community with the launch of its Montego Bay Chapter. The Chapter is now in its embryonic stage and we look forward to interesting activities that it will generate in the western belt of the island.
Exciting times are ahead for cargo import processing, as the Association moves into another phase of the New Economy Project (NEP) being funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This project will improve current processes and increase automation as well as access to computer-based systems associated with the cargo receival and delivery procedures of the Port of Kingston.
Completion of a security manual and initiation of procedures to boost security and prepare local ports for certification, are also among the accomplishments in 2002. The future of the Port of Kingston is intrinsically linked to its security and safety arrangements there and this area continues to be a priority.
Cognisant of the numerous challenges on the horizon, the SAJ has firmly planted its feet on a path to become a viable organisation of national relevance and impact. This process not only focuses on introducing new procedures and systems for efficiency, but also is buttressed by a commitment to the training and development of the personnel who a work in this vital maritime sector.
As we usher in the New Year, we do so with great anticipation of the benefits to be derived from the plans initiated in 2002. We look forward to establishing and maintaining partnerships and synergistic relationships with relevant stakeholders as we work with diligence to support our membership, the development of the maritime sector and ultimately the country".
Grantley Stephenson
President
Shipping Association
of Jamaica
