'Our seas can be resource for job creation,' Labour MEP says

During her visit of the premises of Chaudron Company Limited in the limits of Zabbar, MEP Miriam Dalli spoke in favour of the country’s potential in the blue economy.

Next month the European Parliament will vote on the Blue Economy Policy for EU member states,  and the vote is the next step in a process spread over a number of months led by the industry committee Dalli is a member of.

Dalli visited the premises of Chaudron Company Limited as part of her work for the policy, so that she could appreciate the boat building work carried out by family Ciantar up close.

“The Chaudron brand is nowadays internationally recognized thanks to Aaron and Audrien Ciantar’s participation in the prestigous Powerboat P1 tournaments,” Dalli said.

“Aaron Ciantar has set a histroical record for Chaudron and Malta by becoming world champion for 4 times,” she added.

Chaudron was set up in 1998 and the first boats produced were between 16 and 22 feet long. Their immediate success led to an expansion and to a move to the current premises in Zabbar.

“Nowadays the company produces any kind of craft, from 13 foot leisure boats up to the massive 45 foot powerboats which can also reach impressive speeds,” Aaron Ciantar said, explaining how he involves himself in all stages of the work carried out.

“I make sure that I am involved from the very initial stages of the work to the last electrical components that are put in place.”

“Having the highest quality is our mantra. We make sure that the highest possible quality standards are maintained,” he said adding that employees were also trained in carrying out the work according to the highest standards.

Aaron’s father, Charles, explained how their brand is considered a leader in the Powerboats building industry.

 “Our main competitors are in the United States and Chaudron exports to a number of different continents and regions including Scandinavia and the Gulf,” Charles added.

Dalli congratulated Chaudron for its professional attitude and its constant attention to detail.

“This industry is an important part of the Blue Economy which is far wider than what is traditionally considered,” Dalli said.

“At a time when our continent is facing economic uncertainty coupled with financial pressure we need to start actively considering our seas as a resource for job creation.”

She added that the country needed to tap the latent potential of the seas and equip the workforce with the needed skills  to make the most of the new opportunities that will arise.

 “It is imperative to create a good balance between the potential of the maritime economy and maritime protection,” she said adding that the P1 Federation is aware of the possible impact that their sport has on the environment.

“Not only do they strictly follow environmental laws but they actually surpass them with more rigorous restrictions and practices.”