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Articles 2–7 of the Convention. Seafarers’ identity documents. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s first report on the application of the Convention, in particular the Government’s statement that implementing legislation is still in the process of internal review, and that the issuance of seafarers’ identity documents is not expected to begin before 2011.

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.