Maldives
MARINE CIRCULAR
Marine Circular No: INT- 2022/001
Date: 11th January 2022
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To: |
Shipping Community, Port Masters and all concerned parties and organizations |
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Subject: |
Designation of seafarers as ‘Key Workers’ |
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Reference: |
202-M/CIR/2022/1 |
1. More than 80% of world traded goods are carried over the sea. Ships are the main transport arteries for global trade and seafarers are essential to keep up with the movements at sea. During the pandemic, restrictions have left thousands of seafarers stranded and number of seafarers unable to join ships. To ensure unhampered flow of essential goods especially critical medical supplies, seafarers rightfully deserve to be designated as “Key Workers”. Therefore, to facilitate their unhindered movement, safe travel and vaccination, key worker designation is essential to exempt seafarers from specific COVID-related restrictions, allowing them to travel between their country of residence and ships, and to be repatriated at the end of their contracts.
2. In line with IMO MSC.1/Circ.1636/Rev.1 (22nd April 2021) Maldives hereby, declare seafarers as “Key Workers” and will comply with industry recommended framework of protocols for ensuring safe ship crew changes and travel during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic. Maldivian authorities will ensure and facilitate crew change for seafarers in line with health protocols.
3. In line with IMO Circular Letter No.4204/Add.38 (25 March 2021) with regard to Joint Statement of IMO, ICAO ILO, WHO and IOM calling on Governments to prioritize COVID-19 vaccination for seafarers. From the date of issue, concerned authorities of the Maldives will facilitate and prioritize seafarers’ vaccination.
4. In line with resolution MSC.473 (ES.2) Maldives assigns Capt. Adhil Rasheed as designate Focal Point on Crew Change and Repatriation of Seafarers, to coordinate action and communication. Focal point contact details: Tel: + 960 334 3452 Mobile: + 960 999 8700 Email: maritime@transport.gov.mv
5. All relevant, concerned agencies, organizations, bodies are advised through this circular to facilitate seafarer as keyworker and prioritize their vaccination and repatriation as appropriate.
6. This circular will enter into force from 13th January 2022.