MARITIME LAW AND COMMERCE: Domestic Ferries

It insisted that the need of the hour was to develop regional support aimed at addressing specific national solutions.

During the forum, focus was also laid on safety programmes, vessel-specific concerns, legislation, regulatory and compliance matters, seafarers' training and certification, operational issues, search and rescue, and safety awareness.

Under the action plan, industry stakeholders were also invited to encourage implementation and enforcement of applicable provisions regarding conventions/regulations, apart from adopting Pacific Islands Maritime Laws model legislation and regulations, into national legislation. This was aimed at ensuring harmonisation of maritime legislation within the region.

The stakeholders were also encouraged to ensure that the legislation is easily understood, enforceable and accessible to all. The legislation should also include stringent penalties for encouraging effective implementation, development and implementation of effective passenger control and accountability mechanisms.

The action plan also encouraged the development of safety management systems for domestic ferries and passenger vessels. These systems should include training in operational matters, including planned maintenance and safety awareness programmes and pre-departure safety briefs for passengers.

Moreover, periodic review and continued development was also encouraged under IMO's action plan.

Improvement of relevant guidelines pertaining to survey, maritime training, legislation and regulations and domestic ship safety programmes also formed an important part of the plan.