ESC welcomes new chance for port service liberalisation<

15 October 2004

The European Shippers’ Council has welcomed a new proposal of the European Commission to liberalise ports in Europe.

Nicolette van der Jagt, Secretary General of the ESC said, ‘European shippers are witnessing today serious problems in some of the largest ports in Europe. Congestion has become a European problem and risks undermining the competitiveness of the European economy. The liberalisation of port services provides shippers with the best opportunity yet to improve working practices and operational procedures within European ports, boost the role of ports as transport network hubs and create competition in and between ports.

Greater efficiency stimulated by market competition in dockside activities such as cargo handling is essential in facilitating the rapid turn around of ships in port. This will go some way to giving short sea shipping the competitive edge it requires to capture greater transport market share.

The ESC has taken note of the fact that the proposal would allow self-handling by sea-based crews only for short sea shipping journeys. The ESC has always said that the inclusion of cargo handling services in the Directive is critical.

The ESC will study the proposal in more detail and will shortly come forward with a position paper.

For further information contact: Nicolette van der Jagt, Secretary General of the ESC - Brussels 00 322 230 2113