Tidelines: Law worries

The Marine Transport Association has made submissions on two of the issues facing the industry now before parliamentary committees. Both the Land Transport Management Bill and the Marine Reserves Bill will impact on all association members. President Laurence McLeod says the MTA submission also supported the Recreational Fishing Council stance on the marine reserves proposal.

Oceans policy

The second stage of the development of New Zealand's Oceans Policy has been launched with the distribution of a bulletin called Oceans Blueprint. It sets out everything done so far, including the 11 draft working papers on aspects of our oceans management system. The aim is to provide a clear direction on how to balance cultural, economic, environmental and social interests. Details are on www.oceans.govt.nz

Ballast action

The International Maritime Organisation is organising a convention early next year to look at developing new construction methods to enable ships to better manage their ballast water. Concern is growing about biosecurity risks associated with marine invaders carried in ships' ballast water. Exchange of ballast water is a widely used option for existing ships, but is not an acceptable option for some countries. The IMO says the convention will allow the industry to investigate the situation in depth.

Serious yachting is scheduled for this weekend. The action includes:

Saturday: Closing day (PYBC).

Saturday and Sunday: Women's national match-racing series continues (RNZYS); Flying 15 Auckland championships (RAYC); Trans-Tasman Challenge (RNZYS); Ronstan interclub team racing nationals (NZTRA).

Sunday: Closing day, Richmond and Ponsonby, including classics (RYC, PCC).

* Clubs and organisations planning activity on the Waitemata or Manukau Harbour should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on (09) 366 2070.

*Editorial inquiries to Robin Bailey (09) 524-4572, email rbailey@ihug.co.nz

www.marinetransport.co.nz