AGM 2024
On 11 April the MMLA invited its members to the Annual General Meeting. President Dr Matthew Attard reported on the activities undertaken by the Association over the past months. This was a very active period where members of the Executive kept in close contact with various authorities and entities including the RGSS, MBR, SMB and MIA as well as the outgoing and incoming Minister and the Speaker on Maritime Affairs of the Opposition. Amongst the matters discussed were the proposed regulations for shipping service providers, the auditing of merchant shipping companies as well as the KYC guidelines for the resident agents. Dr Attard was pleased to note a considerable increase in membership numbers which is now close to 180 confirming that the Association represents a large fraction of the industry. He invited members to actively contribute through joining one of the subcommittees which are working for improvements in specific areas to the benefit of the industry and the country.
Details of the activities of the subcommittees were presented by Dr Suzanne Shaw, Chair of the Merchant Shipping Subcommittee who reported that the proposed amendments to the MSA are now at Parliament level; Dr Adrian Attard informed that the MMLA is in close contact with the Minister for Justice to finalize the proposed amendments to the COCP; Dr Chris Cini, Vice-Chair of the Yachting Subcommittee gave an overview on the numerous initiatives taken by this subcommittee including a report which helped facilitate the new sCYC, various VAT processes and Customs Process on the Import of Yachts amongst others; Dr Jan Rossi, Co-Chair of the recently set up Strategy Subcommittee informed on the two pillars they are working on, a list of quick fixes to be proposed to the administration and the development of a long-term strategy both aimed at making the flag more attractive and competitive; Dr Stephan Piazza, Chair of the Education Subcommittee reported on the events organised in 2023 and the event planned for autumn 2024 when the MMLA will celebrate its 30th anniversary.
The meeting was concluded by Treasurer Dr Adrian Attard who gave an overview on the Association’s finances YE 2023 and presented the budget for 2024 which was approved by the members.