Many of you reading this will remember in one my recent updates news about a new Seafarer International Relief Fund, established by leading seafarer welfare charities and the wider shipping industry to support seafarers and their families devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. I am delighted to let you know that the fund has now collected $530,000 in pledges so far, and thanks to The Seafarers’ Charity’s agile and established grant making processes, has already issued grants of almost $400,000 to help those worst affected.

Thank you to everyone who has donated to this very worthy cause. If you would like to support the relief fund, you can find more details on how to do so here: https://theseafarerscharity.enthuse.com/cf/seafarers-international-relief-fund

On 9 June the Chamber will be hosting a maritime G7 meeting. Matching the invitation list for the G7, and titled the ‘M7’, representatives from the UK, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, South Africa, South Korea and the United States shipping associations will all join the meeting. The event, which will also be attended by ICS Secretary General Guy Platten, will discuss barriers to trade and improving collaboration on green R&D projects. We will keep members updated on the outcome of the meeting.

In November, COP26 will be taking place in Glasgow. The International Chamber of Shipping has confirmed its booking of University of Strathclyde Technology & Innovation Centre to stage a conference and showcase under the theme of Shaping the Future of Shipping. The venue is in the heart of Glasgow within walking distance of the main COP venue. The ICS has already received interest from several companies to sponsor the event but they have a number of sponsorship packages available for companies who wish to use the platform to promote their activities. For more information or discuss opportunities please contact richard.emsley@ics-shipping.org

This week we were delighted to announce Artemis Media Profile as the latest organisation to join the Chamber. Artemis help their clients build and manage their reputation and is a full-service communications and marketing agency, specialising in marine, engineering and defence. I am delighted to welcome them and I know they will make a really valuable contribution to the Chamber.

Finally this week there are just a few more days until nominations for the Merchant Navy Medal close on 31 May. This state award is for those who are serving or have served in the Merchant Navy and fishing fleets of the UK, Isle of Man or Channel Islands for exemplary service and devotion to duty, rewarding those who have set an outstanding example to others. If you know of anyone who has mentored and supported people, inspired young people, helped companies, actively worked with charities, been an exceptional leader, an example to others, brought about positive changes, improved safety, welfare, mental health, diversity please think about nominating them.  The guidance and nomination form can be found on the GOV.UK website.

I wish you all a pleasant bank holiday weekend!

Bob