Maritime Safety Regulations

Thursday, 29 September 2016

Ceisteanna (262)

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

262. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in view of the clarification his Department received from the European Commission in June 2016 on the requirement for the Marine Survey Office to accept UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency certificates of proficiency issued outside of the UK in another member state in respect of seafarers' certificates; his current position on the key issue of mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates within the EU in line with the requirements of Directive 2005/45/EC, if he accepts this mutual recognition requirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27887/16]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The mutual recognition of certificates validly issued by other EU Member States is fully supported and accepted by my Department. Particular issues have arisen in relation to certifications under the authority of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency of the United Kingdom, which have been the subject of correspondence between my Department and inter alia, the UK Authorities. Arising from that correspondence and its consideration in my Department, a further meeting will take place shortly with interested parties at which my officials will fully clarify our position on this issue.