Second VGP effective December 19, 2013: Vessels to file NOI via EPA's Electronic NOI system by December 12, 2013 or 7 days before discharge to continue coverage
OUTLINE: This circular refers to Circular 18/13 United States Vessel Response Plans. Copies of the appropriate MSRC and NRC contracts are attached as PDFs to the website version of this circular. US Coast Guard has issued a set of FAQs on Non Tank Vessel Response Plans (NTVRP).
The Group clubs have terminated their retainer agreements with MSRC and NRC. Non-tank vessel operators should contract directly with MSRC or NRC in future. Both MSRC and NRC provide spill response contracts that conform with Group guidelines. MSRC have withdrawn their dispersant addendum to spill response contracts making purchase of extended cover unnecessary. NRC offer a fee-paying option to opt out of their addendum and avoid exposure to additional liabilities.
OUTLINE: This circular concerns ships trading to Washington State waters. All ships over 300 gross tons, and all tank ships, are required to file a Washington State oil spill contingency plan before entering Washington State waters. Washington State Maritime Co-operative's (WSMC) 'umbrella' contingency plan still does not comply with International Group guidelines. National Response Corporation's (NRC) 'umbrella' plan has now been approved by Washington State with effect from 1st November 2013. The NRC contingency plan is compliant with the International Group guidelines. The further Washington State requirement for enrolment for Emergency Response Towing Vessel (ERTV) services is still in place. All clubs in the International Group have issued similar circulars
Owners of non-tank vessels calling at US ports will be required to submit their Vessel Response Plan (VRP) by 30th January 2014. This new requirement is being reviewed by the International Group and a more detailed circular will be issued in due course.
This circular provides details of the AGM of the Association which will take place in Bermuda at 9 am on 28th October 2013 and the arrangements for voting by proxy.
New terms were agreed for the Club's hybrid capital bond on 7 June 2013. The new terms were concluded through a process of 'consent solicitation'. Full details of the background information on the consent solicitation process were published on the Club's website
OUTLINE: The Group has revised its recommended pollution indemnity clause for charterparties. The revised clause has two amendments in respect of legal & defence costs and indemnity in the event of contributory fault. The clause was originally prompted by recent Australian legislation ( See our "Legal Briefing - Australia
OUTLINE: The International Group has agreed to cover liabilities arising in respect of the carriage of cargo under two electronic trading systems - Bolero
The London Branch restructure takes effect from 20 February 2013. Members affected by the restructure should note the revised contact address for all claims correspondence set out below. Members located in EEA may have a right to cancel their policy under local laws. This circular relates to the 'Notice to Policyholders - UK Transfer' of 3rd September 2012.
