The Coast Guard is boarding EVERY ship of foreign flag starting today.
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
STORIES BACKGROUND
•Mexican Official Wants Border Eliminated•Six Airports on Lookout for Suspected Terrorists
WASHINGTON — The Coast Guard will board every foreign-flagged vessel that sails into a U.S. port beginning Thursday to check whether it is complying with rules aimed at foiling terrorists.
A maritime treaty signed by about 150 countries requires each ship to have a security officer, alarm system, automatic identification system, access restrictions to the engine room and bridge, and a method of checking IDs of people who board. Each ship must have a certificate signed by the country that flags it saying it is in compliance with the treaty.
"Bet the captain won't be joking after we get through with him....."
.........and a bit of service by ROTO ROOTER.