Maritime safety: minimum level of training of seafarers

On the basis of the STCW Convention (International Convention on Standards of training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) revised in 1995, the Commission had proposed to update and harmonize the directive concerned, in order to ensure consistent application of the requirement as regards the minimum level. At first reading, rapporteur Eolo PARODI (I, UFE) had tabled 35 amendments, which have been only partially incorporated in Council's common position. The rapporteur proposed four amendments for second reading. These are concerning safety at sea. Promotion of the employment of highly qualified EU-seafarers. The establishment of standards of fitness appropriate to the functions, to be carried out. The clarification of the exceptions, curtailing the crew's resting time. Finally, the rapporteur re-introduced the amendment which aims at clarifying watchkeeping conditions on the bridge. The Council did not accept this amendment, but the rapporteur pointed out that watchkeeping is part of the STCW Convention.