Union calls for more harbour security

NUMAST is calling for more powers to monitor boats

A UK marine union says Guernsey must ensure proper security is in place at island ports.

The National Union of Marine, Aviation and Shipping Transport Officers (NUMAST) is currently carrying out a survey of security measures in place at ports in the British Isles.

The information will be used by the group to lobby for more stringent safety procedures at ports.

Guernsey's harbourmaster said the Bailiwick and the other Channel Islands take port security very seriously.

We are working actively with UK government to implement security measures Captain Robert Barton

NUMAST's general secretary, Alan Graveson, said with terrorism becoming a major issue for all branches of the transport industry, the importance of good security cannot be underestimated.

He said: "What is required here clearly is much more adequate security forces which can stop boats, search boats and monitor them.

"You can have all the codes and good guides of practice, but, in the end, it is resources which need to be put into this."

Guernsey Harbourmaster Captain Robert Barton said: "We take security very seriously.

"We are working actively with UK government to implement security measures which include internationals ship and port security codes, plus threat evaluations and risk assessment.

"All the Channel Island authorities take the matter very seriously."