The Canadian Bulk Cargoes Committee

"Representatives of various industries and the Canadian coast Guard formed a Bulk Cargoes Committee three years ago. In 1976 and 1978, I have attended the meeting which take place once per year here in Ottawa as representative of the Canadian Mineral Processors, Dave Hendricks from Granisle accepted the charge in 1977. Our Secretary, Bob Bruce, has suggested repeatedly that I report to the Membership on the deliberations to this group. Twice I found good excuses; this year I did not. I was reluctant to address you since the Committee's deliberation proceeded at a pace which might be identified as Government squared. The Committee advises a Government agency which in turn negotiates with foreign Government agencies.At the outset, I will describe the developments which led to the formation of the Committee and its purpose.The Canadian Mining Industry ships annually millions of tons of products to overseas customers; be it iron ore, coal, fertilizer, or base metal concentrates. Most loadings are in vessels of foreign registry and all will be directly affected by Canadian or International regulations of the transport of such bulk commodities. The major shipping nations are members of an Intergovernmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO). This organization elaborates regulations which govern shipment of all cargo, bulk materials and concentrates included. At IMCO'S deliberations, Canada has one vote, one voice on the Consultative Committee and is represented by our Coast Guard. The Coast Guard has over the years been in contact with industries when discussions concerned shipment of bulk cargoes. In the early sixties, a ""Concentrate Committee"" did exist. It consisted of metallurgists from a number of mining companies and Government representatives. This committee was instrumental in the development of what became known as the ""Concentrate Code"", legislation which has evolved into the Canadian Bulk Cargoes Code as it is known today. The concepts of the flow moisture point and transportable moisture limit originated from its work. Incidentally, both criteria are widely accepted and utilized world-wide. The Concentrate Committee faded away once the Concentrate Code has been adopted."