CLEVELAND — Rear Adm. Michael Parks, commander of the 9th Coast Guard District, James H.I. Weakley, president of the Lake Carriers Association, and Bruce Bowie, president of the Canadian Shipowners Association, signed a memorandum of understanding while attending the International Joint Conference in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Monday.
The two organizations represent the interests of U.S.- and Canadian-flagged vessels and vessel operators on the Great Lakes.
The memorandum’s purpose is to promote a cooperative relationship between the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. and Canadian companies that operate on the Great Lakes.
“The signing of this memorandum demonstrates our commitment to enhancing binational cooperation and our existing relationship,” said Capt. Darryl Varfaillie, chief of prevention for the 9th Coast Guard District.
The signatories have agreed to address mutual concerns and issues related to the safety, security and environmental protection of the Great Lakes and its marine transportation system.
The International Joint Conference, held annually for the past 76 years, is a meeting between the two organizations representing the interests of U.S.- and Canadian-flagged vessels and vessel operators on the Great Lakes.
