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Chamber sets rules on port calls
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Posted on Dec 10 2005
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce has set rules in attending port calls, disallowing many members from crowding during briefings aboard the ships.
Associate Judge David Wiseman, chairman of the SCC Armed Forces Committee, said it is to avoid any abuse of the “limited privilege” granted to the business group.
He said the briefing party that boards the ship is mainly for involved government entities that provide services to the ship while docked at the port.
“Private or business entities, such as the Chamber, usually have no official reason for being there. However, the privilege of including a limited number of Chamber officials in the briefing has been granted to us as a result of established good relationship with the port director and other involved parties. It is a very limited privilege which we must respect,” said Wiseman.
He declined to elaborate except to say that “there have been concerns on the part of officials and we now must put in place certain conditions in order to maintain our privilege.”
Based on the rules, Chamber representatives in the briefing party shall be limited to the director, the chairman or vice chairman of the AFC, and one other committee member.
A member sponsoring a reception for the visiting ship may also be invited.
Other Chamber members can still come and greet the officers and crew at the tent portside.
During this occasion, members will be introduced but only the executive director, the committee chair or vice chair will address the captain and officers at the briefing.
Members are also prohibited from advertising their businesses.
“The official briefing is neither the time nor place to promote any individual businesses,” said Wiseman.
The chairman said this policy is believed to promote a harmonious and productive relationship with concerned parties.
The Chamber, likewise, distributes discount brochures to military visitors.
It said this would show appreciation for the military’s service to the country as well as to promote the local businesses among the visitors.
The group said it regularly solicits military discount promos from its members.
