Terminal operators to be performance-managed

The new licensing process for terminal operators that will see them held responsible for operational effectiveness and productivity is set to be completed by the end of July, according to Herbert Msagala, general manager of operations for Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). Addressing the monthly Transport Forum hosted at the Port of Saldanha Bay, Msagala said 91 applications for terminal licences had been received and were being processed. It was unclear how many licences would be issued, but according to Msagala, TNPA would take on a more comprehensive oversight role in which terminal performance, safety, health and environmental compliance as well as controlling of port services and facilities would be monitored much more closely. The aim of the new system is to improve port efficiency drastically. Through the new licensing process, terminal operators will sign performance agreements to which they will be held accountable. The inclusion of performance monitoring and targets in agreements and licences with terminal operators is in line with the National Ports Act that states in terms of Section 65 that deemed licensees will be performancemanaged through the setting of targets. Operators that do not meet their targets face a range of penalties ranging from a warning to the loss of one’s terminal operating licence. CAPTION: Herbert Msagala ... ‘Operators that do not meet their targets face a range of penalties.’