Canadian Seaway Conforms to ISPS Security Code

June 30, 2004

CORNWALL, June 30, 2004 – The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) announces today that its Marine Facilities Security Plans have been approved by Transport Canada. The Corporation also received Certificates of Compliance indicating that its facilities conform to the requirements of the International Maritime Organization’s International Ship and Port Facilities Security (ISPS) code.

The ISPS regulations, which come into effect tomorrow, require that commercial vessels of over 500 tons travelling between countries, and marine facilities serving such vessels perform security assessments, develop security plans and designate security officers. Also effective July 1, Transport Canada has issued new Marine Transportation Security Regulations that extend the ISPS code requirements to port facilities in Canada, cargo vessels of over 100 tons and towing vessels greater than eight meters in length that tow barges carrying dangerous goods in bulk.

In order to receive certification of compliance with the ISPS code, SLSMC identified potential threats to Seaway facilities and prepared plans for dealing with breaches of security. Training is being provided to employees on an ongoing basis. Improved fencing, gates, locks, cameras, and signage have enhanced security at SLSMC’s facilities. New access controls are in effect and sensitive areas have been designated as restricted. Audits and exercises to test the components of the security plan will be conducted regularly.

All foreign ships entering the St. Lawrence Seaway will be boarded at Montreal for initial security verification by inspectors from Transport Canada Marine Security and the U.S. Coast Guard. The Corporation has worked closely with Transport Canada, the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation to develop a coordinated approach to security inspection that will have a minimal impact on the vessel transit.

“These new measures have strengthened marine security at the 13 Canadian locks”, says Richard Corfe, President and CEO of The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation. “With the implementation of these standards, the overall safety of the system is enhanced, thanks to the coordinated and balanced actions taken by those involved in the management of the system. ”

For more information: ISPS Code and the St. Lawrence Seaway