Initiative to highlight the challenges of Greek coastal shipping in the new era
A working meeting with the President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping Passenger Services (SEEN), Mr. Theodoratos, was held by Dodecanese MP and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Regions, Mr. Manos Konsolas.
The discussion focused on the strategic role of ferry services as the “sea highway” that guarantees connectivity for Greece’s island regions. As Mr. Konsolas stressed, strengthening connectivity is a national priority, as it is directly linked to social and economic cohesion and to the very survival of island communities.
Ferry transport was highlighted as the central pillar supporting the year-round operation of the islands and as a driving force behind their tourism, economic and social development.
Following Mr. Konsolas’ initiative, a special thematic session on coastal shipping will be held at the Parliamentary Committee on Regions to address current challenges and future prospects.
Particular emphasis was placed on the green transition. “The green transition must not create problems for the competitiveness and prospects of Greek coastal shipping, as such problems would have negative consequences for island regions,” Mr. Konsolas underlined.
He also emphasized the need to renew the ferry fleet with vessels using new alternative fuels that reduce operating costs, as well as the establishment of incentives for the construction of new ships. According to Mr. Konsolas, fleet renewal must go hand in hand with the development of appropriate port infrastructure across the country.
“Ferry services are directly linked to the survival of island regions, since for approximately 90 islands, the ship is the only means connecting them to mainland Greece and to one another,” he stated.
