Critical Challenges and Uncertainties Loom as ML5 Medical Certification Deadline Nears
As the ML5 medical certification deadline inches closer, the fishing community faces a labyrinth of uncertainties and concerns, particularly concerning the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) approach towards vessel owners and crew members lacking this crucial certification.
The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) has brought to light a pressing issue regarding vessels found with crew members possessing valid safety certificates but lacking the ML5 certification.
Charles Blyth, the NFFO’s risk, safety, and training lead, expressed grave concerns about the ambiguity surrounding the MCA’s stance.
According to Blyth, the MCA’s subjective assessment of proportionality and reasonableness in evaluating the risk posed by existing medical conditions among fishers remains an enigma.
The lack of clarity extends to the MCA’s decision-making process on a case-by-case basis.
Blyth emphasised the paramount importance of consistency in treating fishers, urging a more nuanced approach that considers individual circumstances rather than relying solely on surveyors without medical expertise.
Amidst the uncertainties, questions arise about the impact of deficiencies raised on vessel files and their implications for registration status.
Blyth articulated concerns regarding the potential devaluation of fishing vessels due to individual crew members’ health issues impacting the vessel’s commercial value.
Seeking clarity and uniformity, the NFFO has called for detailed insights into the MCA’s policy for new entrants entering the industry, echoing the industry’s plea for clear guidelines akin to the grace period specified in MSIS 27 for fishers to obtain remaining qualifications.
In response to requests for clarification, the MCA issued a concise statement outlining possible actions post-November 30 for fishermen lacking medical certification.
However, the statement did not address the pivotal matter of using surveyors’ familiarity with vessel particulars in decision-making.
Despite this, informal communication hinted at a potential approach for smaller vessels with solo fishermen, mirroring the MCA’s methodology in handling safety courses for new entrants.
As the deadline looms closer, the fishing industry’s fate remains uncertain, tethered to the MCA’s forthcoming actions and its interpretation of ‘proportionate response’.
This impending deadline raises critical concerns not only for vessel owners but also for the livelihoods of African fishers navigating through uncharted waters of regulatory ambiguity.
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