This week we have witnessed the incredibly distressing scenes of Russian troops invading Ukraine. We condemn in the strongest possible terms this unprovoked attack on the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainian people and this blatant violation of the fundamental principles of international peace is a threat to European security. The world certainly feels a far less safe place today and the repercussions for Europe, the shipping industry and global trade will become clearer in the days and weeks ahead.

Russian and Ukrainian seafarers make up almost 15% of the global shipping workforce and it is imperative seafarers do not become the collateral damage in any actions that governments or others may take. The team at the Chamber are monitoring the situation closely and are in contact with the government and colleagues around the world. Yesterday we joined a meeting of the Warlike Operations Area Committee (WOAC) to agree measures to protect operators and seafarers in the region. As sanctions from the UK and around the world are introduced we will do all we can to help and assist members who may be caught up in this but should members have any questions please do get in touch with Peter Aylott for security concerns, Gavin Simmonds on sanctions or Tim Springett on WOAC issues.

At the Chamber we are always looking at ways to improve the training and skills of our future seafarers and following a recent revision of the MNTB Constitution, the Chamber is entitled to nominate twelve shipowner members to the Main MNTB Board. There are currently four vacancies on the Board for nominations from the Chamber. Whilst nominees are expected to act in the interests of ship operators generally, rather than representing their companies, they should be from companies that have a demonstrable commitment to high quality training of personnel, with a view to their employment within the company fleet. Any member wishing to put themselves or colleagues forward for consideration please contact Tim Springett who can provide the relevant information which was also included in his circular from last Friday. The closing date for nominations is Friday 11 March 2022.

Those of us who are lucky enough to work in the shipping and maritime industry know what a vital job the General Lighthouse Authorities do and this week the Shipping Minister Robert Courts announced an increase in Light Dues for 2022/23, a rise of 2.5 pence to 41p per Net Tonne. The increase represents a significant percentage increase in rates, but our Users Group the Lights Advisory Committee and DfT recognised that a fall in Light Dues income, 40% in real terms since 2010, made an increase unavoidable. We hope that an immediate rise now will allow a return to lower rates in the future. If any members would like to discuss this further, please do reach out to Gavin Simmonds.

In my Bulletin last week I outlined details about our AGM. Members can now book their ticket for this event taking place on 30 March, with a drinks and networking session following the AGM. All the details can be found on our website, as well as links to booking your ticket.

Sarah