Greek owners back RINA Hellenic committee

High profile Greek shipowners have backed a move by Italy-based classification society RINA to expand its presence in Greece. Nineteen representatives of the Hellenic shipping community have joined RINA?s newly-reformed Hellenic committee.

Ugo Salerno, ceo of RINA, told the inaugural meeting on May 27 that this Committee will create a vital link between RINA and the Hellenic shipping community, which share the same objectives of excellence and continuous improvements in quality, safety, security and protection of the marine environment.

Marios Stafilopatis, Byzantine Maritime Co, appointed Chairman of the Committee, said the committee would keep the Hellenic shipping community updated about the status of the rules for the classification of ships and international regulations, through RINA?s leading role and participation in the activities of IACS and at the IMO. RINA, through this Committee, intends to gather information and recommendations on the needs of the Hellenic community in relation to ship construction, operation and management.

Discussion at the first meeting centred on the decision taken by the Maritime Safety Committee of the IMO to consider single and double side skin bulk carriers as two equally viable options for new buildings.

The RINA Hellenic Committee will meet twice a year. A Technical Committee, composed of technical representatives of the Hellenic Committee members and of RINA experts, will be established to work on detailed areas of particular interest.