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The Australian government has put out a statement saying how it is dealing
with the shambles caused by the implementation of a new customs software
system that has caused import containers to pile up in the country’s main
ports.
A statement issued by the government says: “Key industry groups today met
with the Minister for Justice and Customs Senator Chris Ellison and the
Australian Customs Service to address concerns in relation to the
implementation of the Integrated Cargo System (ICS).
“While it was agreed that implementation of the system was still progressing
and that there had been improvements, a number of concerns needed to be
addressed.
“P&O and Patricks advised that across the ports of Sydney, Melbourne and
Brisbane around 8,400 containers had been cleared for collection.
It added that a process was agreed to ensure that when a container had been
cleared, this will be reflected in the vehicle booking system and a booking
can be made to collect that container.
The two main port operators will open on Saturdays and Sundays for the
collection of containers and the government is make sure the right officials
are available to allow this.
Despite the embarrassing fiasco the government appears determined to
continue with the new scheme.
The statement says: “There was broad agreement that Customs should press
ahead with the new system and continue to work with freight forwarders,
transport operators, brokers and stevedores to resolve technical
difficulties and processing issues. This will also rely on Customs and third
party software suppliers delivering system enhancements as efficiently and
expeditiously as possible.” |
