A: It’s too early to tell what shape the new framework may take and how it may affect different people. However, it will provide for relevant qualifications that equip people with the competencies they need on the water and operational limits that are appropriate for crew skill levels, as well as the type of vessel.
A: Existing qualifications will be transferred to the new framework with appropriate recognition of your skills and experience. However, as a result of the review, MNZ may introduce new certification standards which will need to be met to continue to operate. As with other industries, there may be a requirement to renew certificates periodically. It’s about staying current and relevant and keeping up with new technology and safety requirements. Any changes would be made with full industry consultation.
A: We have to work with existing legislation. This means all current rules and qualifications remain in force until the new qualifications and operational limits framework is introduced.
A: Revalidation isn’t consistent at the moment. During the review we will be looking at revalidation and the best way to ensure that commercial operators stay up to date. We want your views on this.
A: There may be some changes to operational limits to better align them with qualifications and enable the commercial maritime sector to function more effectively. MNZ acknowledges that the issue of operational limits is critical to many people’s ability to earn a living. We need to strike the right balance between commercial needs and the requirement to operate safely.
A: Many skills can only be mastered through time at sea. However, it is acknowledged that some current requirements for sea time for certification are not aligned with the actual demands of the job. This is one of the issues that will be considered as part of the review.
A: We don’t know at this stage. This review isn’t intended as a way of increasing licensing fees. We are very conscious of any impacts of costs on business and will try to keep these to a minimum.