News Release
FOR RELEASE - June 16, 2005
Contact: Aaron Ellis, aellis@aapa-ports.org
703-684-5700

American Association of Port Authorities
Phone: (202) 792-4033
www.aapa-ports.org

International Ports Group to Hold Security & Safety Seminar in East Rutherford, NJ, July 27-29

Seminar Topics Include Combating Terrorism and Cargo Theft, Radiation Safety, Building a Port Authority Police Force, & More

ALEXANDRIA, Va.  (June 16, 2005) — In the intensifying global climate of war and upheaval, security remains the paramount financial and logistical challenge confronting the international seaport community.  At the same time, ports must deal on a day-to-day basis with the need to ensure a safe and secure workplace environment for their employees, customers and the public at large.

These are compelling reasons why the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), the organization representing public ports throughout the Western Hemisphere, each year provides a forum of speakers, interactive programs and exhibits to help ports improve security and safety at their facilities.  This year’s AAPA Port Security and Safety Seminar, hosted by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, will be held at the Sheraton Meadowlands Hotel and Conference Center in East Rutherford, N.J., July 27-29.

“Since 9/11, U.S. seaports have instituted heightened security measures and have invested hundreds of millions of dollars to address terrorism threats,” said Kurt Nagle , AAPA president and CEO.  “Because there are individuals and groups around the globe who wish us harm, our association and member public ports believe that enhancing seaport security and protecting America’s marine facilities from acts of terrorism and other federal crimes must remain a top national priority.”

Discussion topics for the security and safety seminar include: a progress report of the Transportation Workers Identity Card (TWIC) initiative; building a port authority police force; combating port terrorism and cargo theft; radiation safety measures; National Incident Management System (NIMS) training; and paying for port security and safety.  Tabletop exhibits featuring port safety and security programs and products will also be in abundance.

More information and an agenda for the AAPA Port Security and Safety Seminar can be found at www.aapa-ports.org or by calling Ed O’Connell, AAPA membership services director, at 703-706- 4709.