North Sea Port: a cross-border entity fighting the pandemic

Created on January 1st , 2018, the port authority of North Sea Port manages the ports of Zeeland (The Netherlands) and Gent (Belgium). As a cross border authority, its duties were important against the Covid19 which was spreading from country to country. North Sea Port has tackled this challenge, keeping the link with the citizens and maintaining its sustainable development projects. The North Sea Port, is an active AIVP member since 2018 AIVP - To fight against the spread of the Covid19, North Sea Port has implemented many safety measures and restrictions such as on cruise ships. As a major company in its region, North Sea Port has launched many initiatives to help its community to fight against the pandemics. Could you give us more details about how your Port authority contributes to fight the virus? Daan Schalck – CEO of North Sea Port - We are committed to maintaining the supply chain despite the pandemic. Regarding social responsibility, North Sea Port has made available an additional 100 bicycles for port workers during the Covid-19 crisis, in cooperation with the City of Ghent. This initiative illustrates a positive Port-City collaboration. Additionally, a taskforce team is focusing specifically on the operational and economic aspects of the port and on safeguarding the supply of raw materials, goods, food and life-saving equipment. To this end, we are in close contact with companies, service providers and public authorities. Arrangements have been agreed with the national health services GGD (for the Netherlands) and Saniport (for Belgium). AIVP - On its social media accounts, North Sea Port has been publishing a series of videos, and launched a photography contest opened to the citizens. These multimedia initiatives shows how the port authority cares for a better relation between the port and the citizens, despite the difficult circumstances caused by the Covid-19. Could you tell us more…