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Articles 2–7 of the Convention. Seafarers’ identity documents. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report on the application of the Convention, in particular the Government’s indication that seafarers’ identity documents (SID) cannot be read electronically at present. It also understands that no national electronic database has as yet been established for recording seafarers’ identity documents issued, nor have processes and procedures been put in place for carrying out quality control and evaluations of the SID issuing, management and verification systems.

The Committee is fully cognizant of the fact that ratifying countries may need a few years to put in place the facilities and systems necessary for the issuance of seafarers’ identity documents, especially in view of the highly technical character of certain requirements and recommended procedures. The Committee further understands that, at the initial stage, it may only be able to make a preliminary assessment of the extent to which Members ratifying the Convention have established the necessary facilities and systems. It therefore encourages the Government to pursue its action with a view to adopting the necessary implementing legislation and recalls that the Government may, if it so wishes, avail itself of the advisory services of the Office in drafting new laws or regulations.

The Committee accordingly requests the Government to supply copies of all relevant texts as soon as they are adopted, detailed information on the procedures for setting up and operating a national electronic database and conducting quality control and periodic evaluations, as well as a specimen (not a photocopy) seafarer’s identity document. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the Maritime Trade Act, to which reference was made in the Government’s report.