Talks On Joining A.M.V.E.R.

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30983, 12 February 1966, Page 3

Talks On Joining A.M.V.E.R.

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, February 11. New Zealand and American officials will discuss next week an invitation to New Zealand to join the Automated Merchant Vessel Report System.

The system is a maritime mutual assistance programme designed to provide aid in the development and co-ordin-ation of search and rescue efforts in international waters.

Merchant vessels of all nations are encouraged to send sailing and movement reports to A.M.V.E.R. in New York.

The Information from these reports is processed by a computer which tracks all ships in the plotting area. Other information which will enable the most suitable assistance in a search and rescue operation is processed and made available on request to recognised search and rescue organisations of any nation for use in an emergency.

This information is compiled from daily shipping reports giving tonnage, speed, radio call signs and ports of destination. Next week Commander M. F. Mitchell, of the United States Coast Guard, will be in New Zealand to discuss membership with a committee set up last October when the invitation to join was made.

The committee comprises representatives of the Marine Department, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Royal New Zealand Navy, Civil Aviation Department and shipping companies.

The meeting will be chaired by Captain H. Ruegg, of the Marine Department. Other organisations which will be represented at the meeting are the Post Office and overseas airlines.