Updates

The risk related to the current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is considered to be low at a global level due to the inaccessibility of the affected area and its remoteness to major international ports.

The decision of the UK Supreme Court in the OCEAN VICTORY will assist the shipping community in future disputes involving safe port warranties. The decision also firmly establishes that a charterer cannot limit liability in the same manner as an owner for loss or damage to a chartered ship under English law.

The Boards of Directors of Gard P. & I. (Bermuda) Ltd. and its subsidiaries have noted that the Association’s financial position continues to strengthen, and are pleased to report that no Deferred Call for the 2016 policy year will be levied against the Members.

Despite the well-publicized risks of cargo liquefaction, problems with wet nickel ore cargoes shipped out of the Philippines persist. At the heart of the problem lies inaccurate cargo declarations and certificates provided by the shippers.

A recent ruling in the Washington State Supreme Court finds that punitive damages are recoverable by a seaman in an unseaworthiness claim when the defendant employer is found to have been “reckless”.

The Norwegian Supreme Court clarifies the right to limit liability under Norwegian law, and the application of the criteria required to support a wreck removal order.