Overall standards of pilotage in Europe remain “very high” but standards seem to be dropping in some ports, the Association of Marine Pilots Ireland (AMPI) conference heard.

Capt John Conlon of Arklow Shipping made the point at the recent AMPI conference in Galway which was held on the theme of “the importance of regulation and best practice”.

Capt Conlon, who is marine superintendent and designated person ashore for Arklow Shipping, provided an overview of the company’s ongoing new build projects and discussed accidents involving its ships while under pilotage.

Keynote speaker Capt Captain Brian Sheridan gave some insights on how some regulations have failed to deliver their intended purposes. He also detailed the Port of Galway's plans for developing new but necessary infrastructure.

He said the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) had “engaged in a very meaningful way” with the Port of Galway’s deepwater plans, and “brought in-depth ecological knowledge in navigating the complex subjects of the marine environment”.

European Maritime Pilots Association (EMPA) Secretary General Aileen Van Raemdonck provided a comprehensive overview of that organisation’s successful advocacy efforts for European pilots.

She shared valuable insights into the intricate organisation of pilotage across various EU nations, shedding light on how European legislation impacts all pilots in the region.

Maritime lawyer Donal Keaney spoke about “what to expect when the unexpected happens”, and his presentation looked into the legal aspects of what happens when there is a marine casualty.

Keaney has over 25 years of experience in the shipping sector, ten of which have been spent in a legal environment.

Dutch pilot Arie Palmers discussed the prevalence of improperly rigged pilot transfer arrangements, and the training Dutch pilots receive should they fall into the water during a transfer.

Palmers is regarded as having exceptional knowledge of regulations and recommendations on use of pilot ladders and all aspects of pilot transfer arrangements.

Former seafarer Andy Nattrass who works for Swedish company Trelleborg spoke about portable pilot units. He also spoke about their potential errors and how satellite signals may be “spoofed or jammed”.

The conference opening address was delivered by Independent senator Gerard Craughwell, who advised the AMPI on the importance of clear and regular communication in achieving its objectives within the “intricate and nuanced” Irish political landscape.

What to expect when “the unexpected” happens and other issues facing marine pilots will be discussed at the Association of Marine Pilots in Ireland (AMPI) conference in Galway today.

“The Importance of Regulation and Best Practice” is the theme, and speakers include maritime lawyer Donal Keaney and Aileen Van Raemdonck, secretary general of the European Maritime Pilots’ Association (EMPA).

Aileen Van Raemdonck, secretary general of the European Maritime Pilots’ Association (EMPA)

Port of Galway harbourmaster Capt Brian Sheridan, Independent Senator Gerard Craughwell, and AMPI chairman Padraig Condon will open the conference at the Maldron Hotel, Sandy Road, Galway.

John Conlon, a master mariner and marine superintendent and security officer for Arklow Shipping

Also speaking will be John Conlon, a master mariner and marine superintendent and security officer for Arklow Shipping; maritime pilot Arie Palmers from the Netherlands; and Andy Nattrass, navigation and piloting sales manager for Swedish company Trelleborg.

AMPI Secretary Patrick Galvin will give the closing address.