An independent panel of experts is to continue to support the cruise industry in improving safety measures ahead of the first anniversary of the Costa Concordia disaster in January.
The announcement came from the Cruise Lines International Association (Clia) in a review of the global cruise industry operational safety review established after the tragedy in which 32 people were killed.
Clia stressed that the industry plans to continue its focus on operational safety improvements and best practices after introducing 10 new safety policies in the past 11 months.
Chief executive Christine Duffy said: “I am excited to announce that the independent panel of experts will continue to assist our industry in providing ideas, guidance and impartial analysis going forward. They will be actively engaged through Clia’s many technical and regulatory committees.
“This will ensure that while the formal structure of the operational safety review task force winds down, our industry will continue to benefit from their active input and expertise.
“We will continue to collaborate with International Maritime Organisation and other stakeholders to create a culture of safety that fosters a safe and secure environment for all who sail with us.”
The expert panel comprises Mark Rosenker, former chairman of the US National Transportation Safety Board; Willem De Ruiter, former head and executive director of the European Maritime Safety Agency; Stephen Meyer, former Rear Admiral in the Royal Navy and head of the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch and Dr Jack Spencer, former director, Office of Marine Safety, US National Transportation Safety Board.
De Ruiter said: “My involvement with the review has given me confidence that not only is the industry fulfilling its obligations to deliver voluntary commitments but that it is also engaged in proactive and responsible relationships with regulators across the globe.
“The independent panel of experts looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the global cruise industry to develop policies to continually improve safety on board ships.”