Grantley Stephenson is the new CSA president

San Juan, Puerto Rico:

Jamaica's Grantley Stephenson has been elected the 16th president of the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA). Stephenson was elected during the association's 42nd annual general meeting now under way in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He is the chairman and chief executive officer of Kingston Wharves Limited.

David Jean-Marie, chief executive officer of the Barbados Port Inc was elected vice-president. Jean-Marie is also the chairman of the CSA's sub-committee of ports and terminals.

The elections took place yesterday, on the first day of the CSA's 42nd annual general meeting, conference, and exhibition, being held at the La Concha Resort. The conference is being hosted by the Puerto Rico Shipping Association.

In accepting the presidency, Stephenson said he was humbled by the honour bestowed on him. "Your confidence, staunch support and generous endorsement speak volumes," he said.

The new president underscored the fact that he is mindful of the tremendous tasks ahead which he aims to meet with fortitude and determination for a result in the mutual interest of the CSA and its members.

Commitment

"Today, I give you my commitment that I will serve this noble organisation with the utmost integrity and diligence. I look forward to charting our collective efforts as, together, we continue to transform the dynamics of the Caribbean shipping industry," Stephenson said.

David Jean-Marie, thanked the membership of the CSA for the confidence reposed in him by the elevation to the post of vice-president. "Let me assure you that I commit to providing 100 per cent support to our incoming president and the general council as we work assiduously to uphold the fine traditions of the CSA," Jean-Marie said.

Noting that the CSA is a members' organisation, Jean-Marie said that, "all we do will be for and in the best interest of you (the members), the key stakeholders whom we will be serving".

The CSA conference is being attended by over 300 delegates from the Caribbean, United States, Latin America and Europe. It is scheduled to end tomorrow.