The International Group of P&I Clubs (the IG) is an unincorporated association of the 13 principal underwriting Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Associations (Clubs) and their Affiliated Associations and Reinsured Entity, that between them provide liability cover (protection and indemnity) for approximately 90% of the world's ocean-going tonnage. Each IG Club is an independent, non-profit making mutual insurance association, providing P&I insurance cover for its shipowner and charterer members against third party liabilities relating to the use and operation of ships. Each Club is controlled by its members through a board of directors, or committee, elected from the membership. IG P&I Clubs cover a wide range of liabilities, including loss of life and personal injury to crew, passengers and others on board, cargo loss and damage, pollution by oil and other hazardous substances, wreck removal, collision and damage to property. Clubs also provide a wide range of services to their members on claims handling, legal issues and loss prevention, and often play a leading role in coordinating the response to, and management of, maritime casualties. One of the main roles of the IG is co-ordinating the operation and regulation of the P&I Clubs’ claim-sharing agreement (the Pooling Agreement). All qualifying claims in excess of US$10 million are shared between Clubs in accordance with the terms of the Pooling Agreement. Much of the Group's work involves defining and refining the scope of cover for pool claims, and the rules and guidelines under which claims are shared. This claim-sharing agreement is underpinned by a very extensive, annually renewed, market reinsurance programme. The Group also provides a unique and invaluable forum for sharing information on matters of concern and an effective voice to speak collectively on important industry issues, for example on international conventions and legislation affecting shipowners’ liabilities and related insurance matters.