An independent evaluation of Taiwan’s compliance and implementation of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers was recently completed as part of government work to ensure maritime navigation and seafarers’ safety.
According to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Maritime and Port Bureau, “The Fifth Cycle Report of STCW Convention Quality Standard Independent Evaluation of the ROC” was conducted by a panel of experts through the local office of Norway-based DNV GL Business Assurance Co., Ltd. and Taipei City-based CR Classification Society.
The report, completed in mid-June with results submitted to the International Maritime Organization later the same month, found that Taiwan has communicated information and complied with the requirements set forth in the convention, thereby giving the provisions of the convention full and complete effect.
The bureau said while Taiwan is not a signatory of the STCW, the government began conducting the quinquennial assessment in 2004 to ensure that local seafarers’ training and certifications were in line with global standards.
The government will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure that Taiwan maritime professionals fully meet the requirements of STCW for sustainable maritime sector development, the bureau added. (SFC-E)
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