Displaying items by tag: UK Transport

19th April 2021

UK Transport Secretary Appoints New Chair to HM Maritime & Coastguard Agency

The UK's Transport Secretary has appointed a new Chair to HM Maritime & Coastguard Agency which will see Christopher Rodrigues, formally take up the role this month, following a recent role as chairman of the Port of London Authority. Above a shipping scene from the PLA which AFLOAT adds shows berthed at Tilbury Cruise Terminal, Magellan that served the Irish market (but was scrapped earlier this year), the tug Switzer London and a tanker underway on the Thames estuary.

In the UK, the Secretary of State for Transport has appointed Christopher Rodrigues CBE as the new Non-Executive Chair of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

The government agency charged with further enhancing the UK’s position at the forefront of global shipping.

Mr Rodrigues brings extensive international experience as a chair of public, private and government sector bodies in tourism, the arts and public diplomacy and since 2016 as chair of the Port of London, Britain’s largest port.

His leadership will contribute to the MCA’s ongoing plans to transform the agency as it works on innovation and regulation, while seeking to grow the UK Flag and helping boost the maritime economy.

The Secretary of State for Transport made the appointment, which is the second since the role was first mooted as a key recommendation in Lord Mountevans’ Maritime Growth Study published during London International Shipping Week ISW 2015 .

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “I’d like to welcome and congratulate Christopher, who joins the Maritime & Coastguard agency at an exciting time for the agency and a hugely important moment for the UK as we look to our recovery from Covid-19.

“I am very grateful to Michael Parker, the first MCA Chair for the work he has done in establishing its remit, but also for the direction he has given to the organisation over the past four years.

“This appointment is part of a wider commitment to generate growth in the maritime sector, encourage greater investment in the UK and promote the UK flag as a world-class register that attracts quality ship owners”.

This announcement coincides with the start of the countdown to London International Shipping Week (LISW) 2021 which will bring together global leaders from the maritime industry and showcase the best of the sector in the UK.

Christopher Rodrigues CBE said: “I am delighted to be taking up the role and look forward to supporting the MCA team as they adapt to the changing needs and commercial requirements of international shipping and maintain the great traditions of HM Coastguard.

“The UK is a world leading maritime nation. Ensuring that the MCA provides an effective and responsive service is central to retaining this position.”

MCA Chief Executive Brian Johnson said: “I very much welcome this appointment. Christopher will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Maritime & Coastguard Agency and we all look forward to working with him.”

The maritime sector contributed at least £17 billion to the UK economy in 2017 and supports at least 220,100 jobs across the country.

Published in Ports & Shipping

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About the Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency is a governmental body established under the 1998 Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland. The Agency's goal is to provide sustainable social, economic, and environmental benefits by effectively conserving, managing, promoting, and developing the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

The Agency's governing legislation confers several specific functions, including the promotion of development of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough for commercial and recreational purposes in respect of marine, fishery, and aquaculture matters. Moreover, the Agency is responsible for managing, conserving, protecting, improving, and developing the inland fisheries of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Additionally, the Agency has the task of developing and licensing aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism.

The Loughs Agency reports to the North South Ministerial Council and its government Sponsor Departments, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) in Ireland. The Departments fund the Agency on an equal basis.

The Loughs Agency's focus on sustainable development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and local communities in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. The Agency's efforts to conserve and enhance the region's marine resources, including fisheries and aquaculture, are expected to benefit local communities, promote tourism, and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the Loughs Agency plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable social, economic, and environmental development of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Its work on marine conservation and development is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the region's natural resources and in promoting sustainable economic growth.