Latest IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee 97th Session held late November addressing STCW deadline problems. The MSC 97 noted that the transitional arrangements for implementation of the 2010 Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code end on 1 January 2017.
However, there was concern that some Parties may not be in a position to issue STCW certificates in accordance with the requirements of the Convention by 1 January 2017.
It was agreed that a practical and pragmatic approach should be taken during inspections, for a period of six months (i.e. until 1 July 2017), to allow flexibility in cases where seafarers are unable to provide certificates that were issued in compliance with the 2010 Manila Amendments.
The MSC agreed to issue a circular on Advice for Parties, Administrations, port State control authorities and recognized organizations on action to be taken in cases where not all seafarers carry certificates and endorsements meeting the 2010 Manila Amendments to the STCW Convention and Code from 1 January 2017.
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