REG - Westminster Group - Commencement of Cargo Screening Operations <Origin Href="QuoteRef">WSG.L</Origin>

WestminsterAnnouncement

09/02/2016 10:10

RNS Number : 5151O
Westminster Group PLC
09 February 2016
9 February 2016
Westminster Group Plc: 
Commencement of Cargo Screening Operations 
Westminster Group Plc ('Westminster', the 'Group' or the 'Company'), the AIM listed supplier of managed services and technology based security solutions to governments and government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGO's) and blue chip commercial organisations worldwide, is pleased to announce that its aviation division, Westminster Aviation Security Services (WASS), has commenced cargo screening operations at Freetown International Airport (FNA) in West Africa.
Following security concerns in 2010, the European Commission introduced the RA3 and ACC3 Regulations via EU 185/2010 (Regulated Agent, Air Cargo or Mail Carrier operating into the Union from a third country airport) which required all regulated agents and airlines to implement enhanced security measures for all cargo bound for the EU/EEA and to ensure it is protected from interference.
The WASS construction and technical teams have worked hard to implement all of the security features and equipment required and WASS has produced the protocols for accepting and screening cargo using the EU approved methods of X-Ray, hand search and Free Running Explosive Detection Dogs (FREDDs) for the movement of high risk cargo, mail, and dangerous and high value goods.
In addition, WASS's Cargo Security Manager, a Certified Instructor for all levels of air cargo, has trained over 150 personnel including security officers, K9 units, ground handling agents, ramp agents, airlines and cargo agents and compiled all of the required operational documentation required by regulations.
Following an intensive audit by the EU validator in February 2016 the new cargo operations at FNA have now been accredited with full RA3 status. These operations are just one of a few airports in West and Central Africa with such accreditation. FNA is now able to provide cargo services destined for Europe, including transit and transfer cargo and this provides considerable opportunities for FNA to become a cargo hub serving neighbouring countries.
WASS will, with immediate, effect now commence screening operations of export cargo for airlines travelling to the EU and elsewhere as required. Revenues will be generated on a variable per kilo security charge tariff, subject to certain minimum charges.
Commenting on the development Peter Fowler, Chief Executive of Westminster Group, said:
"I am delighted to announce the commencement of this much needed and eagerly awaited operation. The hard work put in by our security teams and, in particular, our Cargo Security Manager, must be commended, particularly as much of this work was done during the Ebola crisis period.
"With the end of the Ebola crisis, the resulting airlines returning, and increasing flight numbers, there is a demand for cargo services. Our investment in advanced cargo screening equipment, systems and personnel can now begin to bear fruit as this new cargo screening service represents an additional revenue stream for the Company."
For further information please contact:
Westminster Group plc.
Tel: 01295 756 300
Peter Fowler (Chief Executive)
Ian Selby (Chief Financial Officer)
S. P. Angel Corporate Finance LLP (NOMAD & Broker)
Tel: 020 3470 0470 
Stuart Gledhill
Walbrook PR (Financial PR)
Tel: 020 7933 8780
Tom Cooper/Paul Vann
0797 122 1972
tom.cooper@walbrookpr.com
Notes:
Westminster Group plc is a specialist security and services group operating worldwide via an extensive international network of agents and offices in over 50 countries.
Westminster's principal activity is the design, supply and ongoing support of advanced technology security solutions, encompassing a wide range of surveillance, detection, tracking and interception technologies and the provision of long term managed services contracts such as the management and running of complete security services and solutions in airports, ports and other such facilities together with the provision of ferry services, manpower, consultancy and training services. The majority of its customer base, by value, comprises governments and government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGO's) and blue chip commercial organisations. For further information please visit www.wsg-corporate.com

This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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