‘Every party has contributed to congestion mess’ I researched the “port congestion” from a number of sides. It was painfully clear that the blame rested between the shipping lines / Port Operations /C+F agents and shippers. Every party at some stage has contributed to this mess! What emerged was the fact that there was an “I’m all right jack” attitude from all parties. Instead of getting off their pedestals and resolving the issues by mutual discussion, our industry was far too quick to blame someone else! Bring back the old port committees and give the members the authority to make quick decisions. I respectfully do not believe that the “Liaison Committees” have any meaningful influence or willingness to make the effort. Come on all of you - stand up and be counted for once or get out and let someone else in who will be willing and able to do the job....for all our sakes! Tim Driman, TLD Group. ‘Surcharge should be done on deposit basis’ With reference to the article about an easing of port congestion and its impact on the congestion surcharge (FTW June 20, 2003), I still reckon that if the lines have to levy a congestion surcharge it should only be done on a ‘deposit’ basis. The deposit is therefore refunded if the vessel is not affected by any port delays. True there will be extra administration costs on the part of the lines but that is small in comparison to the harmful effect that the surcharge is having on our economy. Robert Catterall
