Cyprus notifies vessels of 2022 MLC amendments

The Shipping Deputy Ministry of Cyprus has issued Circular No. 31/2024 on October 29, 2024, to inform all parties associated with Cyprus-flagged vessels—including shipowners, charterers, managers, ship masters, officers, and crew—about the enforcement of amendments made in 2022 to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006. These amendments were approved under the tacit acceptance procedure at the 110th Session of the International Labour Conference and are scheduled to take effect on December 23, 2024.

Key Amendments to MLC, 2006

The 2022 amendments to the MLC focus on improving conditions for seafarers and relate to several core regulations:

Recruitment and Placement (Regulation 1.4, Standard A1.4): Enhancements to the recruitment process for seafarers to ensure fair and transparent practices.
Repatriation (Regulation 2.5, Standard A2.5.1): Updated provisions to strengthen protections around the repatriation rights of seafarers.
Accommodation and Recreational Facilities (Regulation 3.1, Standard A3.1, Guideline B3.1.11): Improvements to ensure that accommodation and recreational facilities meet updated standards for comfort and well-being on board.
Food and Catering (Regulation 3.2, Standard A3.2): Amendments aimed at enhancing the quality of food and catering services provided on vessels.
Medical Care Onboard and Ashore (Regulation 4.1, Standard A4.1, Guideline B4.1.3, Guideline B4.1.4): Updates to medical care provisions, ensuring better health services for seafarers both on the ship and ashore.
Health and Safety Protection and Accident Prevention (Regulation 4.3, Standard A4.3, Guideline B4.3.5): Revised standards aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring safer work environments on ships.
Access to Shore-Based Welfare Facilities (Regulation 4.4, Guideline B4.4.2): Improved guidelines to facilitate seafarers' access to welfare facilities when ashore.
Amendments to Appendices:
- Appendix A2-I – Evidence of financial security for repatriation rights.
- Appendix A4-I – Evidence of financial security for compensation in cases of long-term disability or death due to occupational injury or disease.

Expectations for Compliance

The SDM expects all shipowners, operators, and responsible personnel on Cyprus-flagged vessels to fully implement these amendments to enhance the working and living conditions of seafarers. Specific actions required include:

Updating Declarations of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC Part II): Shipowners and managers are advised to amend their DMLC Part II documents through an addendum, reflecting compliance with the new standards.
Updating Policies and Procedures: Relevant policies, procedures, manuals, and other documentation must be revised to incorporate the new requirements. This includes updates to health and safety protocols, food and accommodation standards, and financial security provisions.
Inspection and Certification: Maritime Labour Certificates and existing Declarations of Maritime Labour Compliance will remain valid until they expire. However, compliance with the new 2022 amendments will be reviewed by Recognized Organizations (ROs) authorized by the SDM during the next MLC inspection. These inspections will ensure that ships flying the Cyprus flag meet all revised standards.

Access to Further Information and Guidance

The full text of the 2022 MLC amendments is available for reference via the International Labour Organization (ILO) website. The SDM encourages all affected parties to review these amendments in detail to understand the scope and implications of the changes.

Support and Further Clarifications

The SDM has expressed its availability to provide additional guidance or clarification on the amendments. Shipowners, managers, and any other concerned parties may reach out to the SDM for assistance in implementing the new standards.