Page 3 - Thome Group News Issue 45

A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE CHAIRMANBy Olav EekThorstensen, Executive ChairmanDear Colleagues on-board and ashore,As this is the final Thome Group News for the year, it is time to look back and review 2016.2016 have been a difficult year for shipping, in fact the worst we have seen in many years.As all sectors bulk, tank, container and offshore, oil and gas have been affected at the same time, this also has had a heavy impact on the Thome Group as a whole.The recent drop in oil prices has not helped the industry and major regulatory changes and ongoing industry debates about environmental issues are very challenging.The focus on cost saving have never been stronger and the demand for lower costs, which at the same time the requirement for improved operation at standards are challenging.The general shortage of experienced and well trained officers and crew, a reduction of new cadets and less funds for training are a reality which may affect our industry for many years.However, at Thome our policy has always been one of continuous improvement with staff being challenged to improve our overall efficiency by refining and improving our systems and procedures.I am really pleased about the positive way in which each department has reacted to the restructuring which was needed to make the necessary improvements.We are already seeing great benefits from the changes we have implemented, following suggestions from our teams which have also had positive knock-on effects for our clients.This Thome Group News edition is packed with articles outlining how Thome is tackling industrial issues such as the recent IMO’s Water Ballast convention (BWMS), reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission from ships andGlobal Sulphur Cap (SOx) which will enter into force in2020, and engine room waste management procedures.We concentrate on seafarer welfare issues with advice on how to stay healthy while at sea and highlight the great work our staff do in the community by donating blood, planting trees to help the environment and volunteering to take part in events to support local children’s hospitals and schools.So I hope you enjoy reading this issue and I take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year.DECEMBER 2016 | ISSUE 47 | 3