Validity of safety certificate for sea vessels extended to five years

Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen has announced the decision to extend the validity period of the safety certificate included in the sea vessel registry to five years effective of Monday.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Minister Ameen underscored that the validity period of the safety certificate had been one year previously.

“It is a huge burden is it not, renewing [the certificate every year] even if is for a dinghy or a small boat with a capacity of three people that is registered for use,” he said.

He also acknowledged the difficulties that owners may face financially in renewing the safety certificate annually. 

He cited these as reasons the validity period of sea vessels has been extended.

“Nevertheless, safety assessment or other matters that need to be reviewed by the Ministry will be checked every time and updated. However, the safety certificate need not to be renewed annually. It will be valid for five years from the date of issuance,” he said.