Today, September 30th, 2021, the Turks and Caicos Island together with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the global maritime community celebrate the efforts of persons in an industry which is connected to every facet of our lives. The maritime sector has sustained the lifestyles of persons while ensuring the economies of the world survive and continue to thrive. Throughout the ages, development has always rested with the nations who have conquered the seas and were able to grow and manage the resources that the sea and other maritime related industries make possible.
Seafarers are the central human effort connected to managing and coordinating resources towards the development and sustainability of maritime related industries. Tourism and international trade are testaments to that fact. Many seafarers have braved storms, uncharted waters and in the process discovered new routes so that mankind's history could evolve and in so doing, become more enlightened.
This year’s theme for world maritime day is fitting, Seafarers: at the core of Shipping future as IMO seeks to increase the visibility of seafarers by drawing attention to the invaluable role they play now and will continue to play in the future. It speaks to the heart of the collective efforts of persons engaged in a range of industries, from fishing to super cargo liners, through diligence and courage they continue in their efforts to supply to all our needs. IMO has chosen to make 2021 a year of action for seafarers, who are facing unprecedented hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, despite their vital role as key workers for global supply chains. The core of shipping has always been the courage, bravery and stamina of seafarers; it sustains the global bloodline of supply and demand.
Honorable Josephine Connolly, Minister with responsibility for Maritime stated “As we celebrate World Maritime Day, the TCI Government recognizes the importance and future role of seafarers and their contribution to safety, maritime security, or environmental protection. Our commitment is to continue ensuring that the regulatory framework and measures are in place to enhance safety and security in TCI waters as well as the protection of the marine environment.”
The role of women in the maritime industry has grown by leaps and bounds and many have risen to great positions to stir and guide many vessels as they travel throughout the globe. Shattering barriers, and inspiring generations of young girls to chosen maritime professions. Today fisher folk are celebrated, not only for their knowledge of the catch but in exploring new routes and contributing to conversation reference climate change and sustainability, especially for small states such as TCI.
Director Fisheries and Marine Resource Management, Ms Thecla Joseph “seafarers have always been at the centre of our work in the maritime and fisheries sector. Today let us take time out to salute the efforts of those who have chosen such noble and worthy professions.
MARITIME HAS ALWAYS BEEN THE SLEEPING GIANT IN WORLD TRADE, KEPT ALIVE BY COURAGEOUS BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN OF MANY UNCELEBRATED PROFESSIONS, “THE SEAFARERS”.
Join the webinar on the day at this link: https://bit.ly/3odhNXe
Message from IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim
Launching the World Maritime theme, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said more Governments must step up to end the crew change crisis (click here for the full text). https://youtu.be/aXPjR8q-aS4