#ShippingReview – Over the last fortnight, Jehan Ashmore has reported from the shipping scene, where Minister for Justice, Alan Shatter outlined one of Ireland's EU Presidency priorities, to address the potential to enhance Maritime Safety, Security and Surveillance in the EU.

Plans for the proposed €350m development of the deep-water port at Bremore, near Balbriggan, Co. Dublin, has been effectively shot down under the government's new National Ports Policy.

The IMDO Weekly Shipping Market Review reported production of Irish manufacturing industries for February 2013 was 0.2% higher than the previous month according to figures released from the CSO.

The European Parliament has rejected proposals to introduce a levy on all ships calling at EU ports that would finance a fund to support sustainable recycling of ships.

A marine notice (no.17) from the Department of Transport, advises on two minor amendments to ship security plans and on-board retention of security records, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 725/2004 and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code).