Copyright 2001 Journal of Commerce, Inc.  
Journal of Commerce - JoC Online
May 16, 2001
SECTION: OCEAN TRANSPORTATION and PORTS/INTERMODAL; Pg.WP

LENGTH: 207 words

HEADLINE: Major questions remain for MSC

BYLINE: JOC ONLINE

BODY:
The commander of the Military Sealift Command said major questions about the future of U.S.-flag shipping subsidies remain unresolved as the current program enters the final years of its 10-year lifespan.In a speech at a luncheon sponsored by the United Seamen's Service, Vice Admiral Gordon S. Holder challenged the maritime industry to resolve issues relating the future of the Maritime Security program to ensure it will be reauthorized before it expires in 2005.

The Bush Administration has proposed shifting the MSP program from the Maritime Administration to the Defense Department, but such a move would require legislation, which hasn't yet been introduced, according to government transportation officials.

Meanwhile, opposition is building to such a move on the grounds that the Pentagon would be a less forceful advocate for the program than Marad.

"The DoD doesn't have any expertise (in managing MSP vessel contracts), and Marad has all the expertise," said Timothy Brown, president of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots union. "I would hate to see change for the sake of change," said Brown, who predicted the transfer would not take place.

JoC Online Archive:

Military Sealift Command

LOAD-DATE: May 17, 2001