Transport 257
Participation in International Shipping Activities
International Maritime Organisation
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, under the name 'Hong Kong, China', is an associate member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and has a permanent representative in London. The Hong Kong maritime industry is consulted on, and kept well informed of, all issues discussed at IMO meetings that may affect Hong Kong. In 2007, HKSAR government officials attended an IMO Assembly and 22 other IMO meetings. Topics discussed included requirements to enhance maritime safety and security, measures to reduce marine pollution, matters related to maritime laws, seafarers' training and certification of standards, facilitation of international maritime traffic, and other maritime matters.
Port State Control
Hong Kong is a member of the Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control (PSC) in the Asia-Pacific Region. The Marine Department participated actively in its various activities, and is the leader of two working groups. Hong Kong hosted the 17th Meeting of the Port State Control Committee in the Asia-Pacific Region from September 3-6, 2007.
The department's PSC officers are well known for their professionalism and impartiality in conducting ship inspections. In 2007, the department continued to conduct daily PSC inspections, even at weekends whenever practicable. The officers conducted 670 inspections on ocean-going vessels, or 15 per cent of all ocean-going vessels that visited Hong Kong. About 3 per cent of ships inspected were detained because of serious deficiencies that needed immediate attention.
Maritime Search and Rescue
The Marine Department's Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre (MRCC) coordinates search and rescue operations for serious incidents occurring in Hong Kong waters and within a large part of the South China Sea, covering some 450 000 square nautical miles of sea.
The centre is manned round the clock by professional staff and equipped with modern communication equipment. It is also aided by a shore-based Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.
In 2007, the centre handled 276 vessel-related emergencies, 66 of which involved search and rescue operations. A total of 163 people were rescued.
In recognition of its expertise, the Hong Kong MRCC was chosen as a member of the International Maritime Organisation/International Civil Aviation Organisation. Joint Working Group for Harmonisation of Maritime and Aeronautical Search and
Rescue.