Kirnidis said that he believed that some registries were showing reticence in accepting technology.
“There is no escaping technology in shipping and we believe it is essential that everything we do with shipping comes from technology. We have taken a strong position in supporting increasing use of technology and blending this to work with people in the shipping world. Paper charts and certificates have long gone and everyone needs to adopt a smarter and more accessible way of working because there are real benefits to be gained,” he said.
Kirnidis also recognised that the threats of cyber-security were an even stronger reason to adopt robust and reliable IT systems.
“Rather than shy away from technology and become fearful of increasing hacking and related cyber-crimes, the shipping world needs to work together to demonstrate that we have the solutions.
“Technology is much more than just security for ships: it’s also about operational excellence both for shipping operations and the way in which seafarers behave in everyday work situations. We must not forget that the role of the human in shipping is still very much a part of the world.
“We have a Deficiency Prevention System (DPS) operating through a dedicated department monitoring all Palau ships so they can reduce deficiency and casualty rates.
“I want to see more technology adopted to ensure the maritime sector remains safety and environmentally compliant. We are not in an age of full autonomous operation – and even when that arrives we will still need seafarers in one capacity or another – but we are on the cusp of sailing into an IT shipping world that will benefit us all and we must grab these opportunities now,” he concluded.