“The safety of Greek waters and coasts” That’s not just a slogan. It is the mission of the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy.
Welcome to the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy. This government department manages Greece’s maritime and shipping sectors. It also develops policies for the country’s numerous islands. The Ministry oversees maritime laws and regulations. It ensures the safety of Greek waters and coasts.
Founded in 1936 as the Mercantile Marine Ministry. The Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy has a rich history. It has undergone several transformations. On September 19, 2007, it merged with the Ministry for the Aegean and Island Policy. This formed the Mercantile Marine, Aegean and Island Policy Ministry.
However, this merger was short-lived. On October 7, 2009, it was abolished. The shipping portfolio then fell under the new Ministry of the Economy.
The Ministry was re-established on September 30, 2010. It was then named the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Islands and Fisheries. Yet again, this was not permanent. On June 27, 2011, it merged with the Ministry of Regional Development. This formed the Ministry of Development, Competitiveness, and Shipping.
The Ministry was re-established once more on June 21, 2012. This time, it was named the Ministry of Shipping and the Aegean. But, on January 26, 2015, it was merged into the Ministry of the Economy.
Finally, on September 23, 2015, it was re-established. It was named the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy. This was during the Second Cabinet of Alexis Tsipras. The current minister is Christos Stylianides.
The Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy has several key functions. It manages and promotes the Greek merchant navy. It also oversees commercial shipping operations. This includes personnel training, ship safety, and industry regulation. It develops and implements policies for Greece’s islands. These policies address transportation, infrastructure, and local economies. The ministry coordinates maritime security efforts. It also responds to maritime emergencies. The Ministry manages Greece’s ports and harbors. This includes infrastructure development and maintenance.
Reflecting on the Ministry’s history. It has seen many changes. Yet, its core mission remains the same. Managing Greece’s maritime affairs and island policies.