Finland’s government is proposing that the validity of fixed-term ships’ crew certificates of competency and certificates of proficiency be extended due to the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic, says an article published in Shipping Insight.
Temporary Derogations
A derogation permitting a special dispensation from certificates of proficiency required on a vessel would also be extended. The derogations would be temporary. The Government tabled a bill to amend the relevant statutes on 18 February 2021.
Extending Validity
The bill provides that certificates of competency and certificates of proficiency expiring by no later than 30 June 2021 would continue to be valid without further application for six months following their original dates of expiration. Over the same period, the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency, Traficom, could grant a dispensation from the requirement for certificates of proficiency at the shipowner’s request. The qualifications and dispensations would thereby expire on or before 30 December 2021.
Finland says the changes in ships’ crew qualifications seek to ensure continuity of shipping and maritime industries in the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 epidemic. They also seek to secure an adequate number of qualified seafarers during the epidemic.
