EU Bans Single-Hull Tankers

The Council of the European Union issued a Provisional Version of its 2499th Council meeting, which focused on transport issues. Under the plan, which must still be approved by the European Parliament, single-hull tankers over 5,000 dwt carrying heavy oils would be banned from EU ports. Single-hull tankers between 600 and 5,000 dwt carrying heavy oils would be banned from 2008. Pre-MARPOL single-hull tankers over 5,000 dwt would be banned from 2005. MARPOL single-hull tankers would be banned as from 2010. In press release issued by the EC, Vice-President Loyola de Palacio welcomed the action. The Council also considered proposals to increase sanctions for ship-source pollution, to establish minimum levels of training for seafarers, and to reinforce the civil liability regime and compensation arrangements in the event of oil pollution.