‘No justification for passing on security costs’

NATIONAL PORTS Authority chief harbour master Captain Niel Brink told FTW late last year that the cost to the NPA of ISPS compliance would be of the order of R200 million, but questions have since arisen: who will ultimately pick up the tab?
In the event of the NPA seeking recompense from liner operators and cargo owners, Barry New stands firm that P&O Nedlloyd will have no part in it.
“I see absolutely no justification for passing on these costs at this point in time. Carriers have also incurred substantial security-related costs which are accepted as business expense required to address the security risks that exist.
“We would resist any attempt to charge for upgrading or complying with security measures. We are not talking about completely new infrastructure installations here. These are changes to working practice and improving facilities and equipment.”