Frequent users of the ports encouraged to register for Ports Identification Cards
in elevating the level of security at the ports keeping them in line with the International Ship and Port Security facility code also known as the ISPS code.
The security upgrade will also increase efficiency at the ports and reduce time spent clearing security. The enforcement of Port ID cards becomes effective 15 April 2012 and will only pertain to persons who frequently conduct business at the ports.
The Managing Director confirmed that persons who do not operate a business atthe port will not be eligible for a Port ID card and will still be considered a visitor and will be required to show proper identification; state the purpose of the visit and destination before entry is permitted.
The Managing Director stated that “Entry to the ports and terminals will be solely on the discretion of management. Having a Port ID card does not give persons anautomatic pass into the ports, he explained, adding that persons would still need to have a legitimate reason for entering the ports.”
To register for Port ID cards persons can obtain a form from the Port Authority Administration building in Port Purcell or electronically from their website at www.bviports.org. The application form should be accompanied by two forms ofidentification, a sponsorship letter, a company identification letter and a $25 processing fee.
The sponsorship letter will have to be submitted on the company’s letter headthat the individual represents. The letter must state the duration of the contract and be signed by an authorized signatory of the sponsoring company. The company identification letter must also be produced on the company’s letterhead and should include the full names of those employees who will be delivering goods and services on behalf of the business and signed by an authorized signatory.
The British Virgin Islands Ports Authority is responsible for the provision ofrequired (sea) ports infrastructure that is critical in the efficient handling of passenger and cargo transportation, which helps to bolster the Territory’s economy.
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