The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s (51³Ô¹ÏÍø) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and briefing session held today, 27 April 2021, was headed by the newly elected 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Chair Neil Glendinning.
The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s (51³Ô¹ÏÍø) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and briefing session held today, 27 April 2021, was headed by the newly elected 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Chair Neil Glendinning.
Mr Glendinning, Chief Executive of Harwich Haven Authority, praised the ports industry for their steadfast and resolute work throughout the Covid-19 pandemic when other industries were scaling back operations. Mr Glendinning also touched upon key developments in 51³Ô¹ÏÍø policy, including the necessity for sustainable economic growth in the form of Freeports.
Mr Glendinning said:
“The hard work and resolve of the ports sector during these trying and unprecedented times has demonstrated the resilience of this essential industry.
While the last twelve months have been difficult for everyone, the next twelve months present an opportunity for the ports sector to pursue a recovery effort that prioritises decarbonisation and a robust logistical network capable of dealing with such unforeseen events. Further items expected to feature heavily on the agenda is the changing role of globalisation and achieving sustainable economic growth for regional communities.”
UK Maritime Minister Robert Courts MP joined part of the online AGM and briefing session to outline the key challenges and opportunities facing the maritime sector, and how government policy can support this. He also answered questions submitted by members of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø. Robert Courts MP commented:
“I am proud of the progress taken by the ports industry on the priorities as set out in our Maritime 2050 strategy. Our ports play a critical role in ensuring goods such as food and medicines, continue to flow into the country regardless of any challenges faced.”
Due to continuing Covid-19 restrictions, the event was held virtually. In addition to these talks, members of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø elected Andy Jones, Chief Executive at the Port of Milford Haven, as the new Deputy Chair, and Maurice Bullick, Finance and Compliance Director at Belfast Harbour, as Honorary Treasurer. Both of these roles, in addition to the Chair, will be for a term of two years. The full list of 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Officers and Council members can be viewed .
Also on the agenda for the AGM today was the adoption of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s 2020 Annual Report and Annual Accounts, the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø ‘s Treasurer gave an update on the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s finances, and changes to the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Constitution were agreed.