Ring-fencing supported as SeaCert submissions flow in

23 June 2016

Maritime NZ has received around 350 submissions on proposed changes to rules on seafarer certification that would allow holders of many older certificates to continue working without transitioning to the new SeaCert system.

More than 400 seafarers attended a series of public meetings around the country and the proposal to “ring-fence” older certificates received considerable support.

Work is underway to assess submissions before an amendment is finalised for consideration by Associate Minister of Transport Hon Craig Foss.

Maritime NZ Director Keith Manch said there had been an excellent response from seafarers.

“A number of issues were raised by the submissions and these are being analysed with a view to finding solutions which maintain the integrity of the certification system, but which also meet the needs of those working in the industry,” said Mr Manch.

Submissions closed on June 7. It is hoped to finalise SeaCert rule changes by September 2016.

In response to submissions, Maritime NZ is considering:

• whether it is possible to allow seafarers to ring-fence NZ Coastal Master (NZCM), NZ Offshore Master (NZOM), and NZ Offshore Watchkeeper (NZOW) tickets. In the meantime, seafarers with these certificates should choose whether to hold off transitioning or not.
•
• whether it is possible to allow seafarers to gain endorsements for ring-fenced tickets
•
• how to give seafarers formal confirmation of their ring-fenced tickets, including clarity on the privileges that apply to each ticket.
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Maritime NZ is urging seafarers with old or legacy tickets to register their tickets. This will enable Maritime NZ to build an accurate database of seafarers affected by rule changes, and ensure they are kept informed of developments. More than 1840 seafarers have already registered.

Seafarers can register:
- online at: http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/legacy/Seafarer-feedback.asp
- by calling 0508 732 237 (toll free) or +64 4 473 0111 (Outside New Zealand).

Maritime New Zealand Media Line: +64 4 499 7318

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