Date: July 18, 2008

Contact: Ricardo D. Castrodad

Sector San Juan Public Affairs Specialist

(787) 510-7923

The exact date will be announced in the Federal Register at least 90 days in advance.  All U.S. Coast Guard credentialed mariners and individuals needing unescorted access to secure areas of ports or vessels regulated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) will need to obtain a TWIC prior to the compliance date.

"This is an important initiative which will enhance the security in the ports of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  Those in need of a TWIC should start the process as soon as possible so it can be implemented with minimal disruptions to maritime operations," said Capt. Eduardo Pino, The U.S. Coast Guard Federal Maritime Security Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Workers are encouraged to enroll as soon as possible and can pre-enroll for their TWIC by calling 1-866-DHS-TWIC or visiting https://www.piersystem.com/jplopez/Local%20Settings/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/OLK4404/www.tsa.gov/twic.  Pre-enrollment will help to facilitate the process by allowing workers to provide biographic information and scheduling of an appointment at a TWIC Enrollment Center.  The pre-enrollment process reduces the time it takes to fully enroll in the TWIC program and eliminates waiting at enrollment centers.

Four TWIC enrollment centers have been established in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, they are: