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The Committee has noted the information provided in the Government's most recent report, and especially the adoption of the Royal Orders of 10 January 1986 and 4 September 1986, amending the Royal Order of 21 May 1958 respecting certificates of competency in merchant shipping, maritime fishing and pleasure craft.

Article 6, paragraph 1(b), of the Convention. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that under the amended section 15 of the Royal Order of 21 May 1958, the certificate of fishing skipper candidate creates the right to exercise the duties of mate on board all fishing vessels if the person has reached the age of 18 years and has fulfilled certain sea service requirements. The Committee pointed out that the minimum age prescribed by national law for the issuance of a certificate of competency may not be less than 19 years in the case of a mate. It requested the Government to indicate any measures it envisages to bring the legislation into conformity with this provision of the Convention.

Since the new Orders referred to appear to repeat the previous provision in this respect, the Committee expresses the hope that the Government will indicate in its next report the measures taken or contemplated.