Workshop about Maritime Search and Rescue in Uruguay
The British Embassy in Montevideo sponsored the visit of two British experts.
Some of the participants before boarding the cruise ship
David Jardine-Smith, from the International Maritime Rescue Federation, and Roly McKie, HM Coastguard Staff Officer, Search and Rescue Operations, were the facilitators of the conference and workshop “Tools and strategies to strengthen the response to cruise ship accidents” from 16 to 19 November.
The aim was to share knowledge and experience with the National Emergency System (SINAE) and the wide range of Uruguayan organisations that would be involved in providing assistance in case of accidents, such as the Navy, Air Force, Fire and Police Departments, ADES and Health Services.
The workshop included a visit to a cruise ship in the Port of Montevideo. The Captain and the Security Chief described their emergency plans and explained the procedures in maritime search and rescue. This activity was highly valued by the participants and helped put their own plans in context.
During the closing session, held at Torre Ejecutiva, the participants agreed to continue working together to strengthen the current plans and protocols.