Report on the progress of Member States’ accession to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel

Summary:

Report presented on 28 March 2019 by the European Commission monitoring the progress of Member States' accession to the International Maritime Organisation's STCW-F Convention, in accordance with Council Decision (EU) 2015/799.

Further information:

The IMO’s International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel (STCW-F) was adopted on 7 July 1995 and entered into force on 29 September 2012.

All Member States which have fishing vessels flying their flag, ports receiving seagoing fishing vessels which fall within the scope of the STCW-F Convention, or training institutions for fishing vessel personnel are strongly invited to become party to the convention.

Background:

The STCW-F Convention is a significant contribution not only to the protection of fishers but also to safer international shipping. It promotes the safety of life and property at sea, thereby also contributing to the protection of the marine environment. Since fishing at sea is one of the most hazardous professions, and fishing vessels and their crew are facing the same hazards and risks in the open seas as commercial seagoing vessels, appropriate training and qualifications are an essential means to reduce the number of accidents and to contribute to the safety and security of the crew on board, and to maritime safety.

Furthermore, the STCW-F Convention is also of great importance regarding the free movement of workers. Fishers might become more mobile having the possibility to work on board fishing vessels of all Member State parties to the Convention. Therefore, the harmonisation of their qualifications by the introduction of a common minimum level of training for fishing vessels personnel will not only improve safety at sea, but it will also further facilitate the free movement of workers. Moreover, it will establish a level playing field in the EU and also in relation to third countries.

ESO Records

Decision (EU) 2015/799 authorising Member States to become party to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel https://www.europeansources.info/record/decision-eu-2015-799-authorising-member-states-to-become-party-to-the-international-convention-on-standards-of-training-certification-and-watchkeeping-for-fishing-vessel-personnel/

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