The Government proposes to make a new regulation under the Merchant Shipping (Seafarers) Ordinance to incorporate the latest seafarers' training requirements as set out in the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters of the International Maritime Organization into local legislation.
A spokesman for the Transport and Housing Bureau today (February 22) said, "The proposed Merchant Shipping (Seafarers) (Ships Operating in Polar Waters) Regulation mandates all seafarers serving on Hong Kong-registered ships operating in polar waters to receive relevant training and obtain the necessary certificates."
The Legislative Council Panel on Economic Development and the Shipping Consultative Committee of the Marine Department have been consulted. Members supported the legislative proposal.
The legislative proposal was gazetted today and will be tabled at the Legislative Council on February 27 for negative vetting.
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