Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2025, published 114th ILC session (2026)

The Committee takes note of the observations of the National Union of Workers of Guinea-Bissau – Union Center (UNTG-CS) received on 19 April 2025. The Committee requests the Government to provide its comments in this respect.

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

The Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 1958 (No. 108). Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document. Particulars to be included. The Committee requested the Government to modify the current cédula de inscricão marítima (seafarer’s identity document) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention. It notes the Government’s indication that measures will be taken to ensure that the cédula de inscricão marítima complies with the requirements of the Convention. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide a specimen of the modified cédula de inscricão marítima once adopted.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2019, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee takes note of the Government’s reports on several maritime Conventions. In this regard, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), has been approved by the Popular National Assembly in 2016 and that it is committed to preparing the declaration foreseen in Regulation 4.5, paragraph 2, to include the coverage of medical care, sickness benefit, old-age benefit and occupational disease benefit. The Committee notes these efforts and requests the Government to provide updated information on progress achieved in this regard. In order to provide a comprehensive view of the issues to be addressed in relation to the application of these Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine them in a single comment, as follows.

The Food and Catering (Ships’ Crews) Convention, 1946 (No. 68). Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee requested the Government to provide updated information on the number of vessels falling within the scope of application of the Convention and on any legislative development giving effect to the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that only three vessels are flying its flag and that they are obsolete. It further notes that the Government refers to the existence of a draft collective agreement for seafarers covering some of the requirements of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the developments concerning any legislative measure or collective bargaining agreement giving effect to the Convention.

The Certification of Ships’ Cooks Convention, 1946 (No. 69). Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. Recalling that only the competent authority – not the captain – is allowed to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification and that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification, the Committee requested the Government to indicate the measures taken to give effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that there is no naval school in the country, but that it is considering the possibility of accrediting certain existing schools for cooks, which would provide the necessary training and qualification for ships’ cooks. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any progress achieved in this regard as well as on any other measures taken to give effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention.

The Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 1958 (No. 108). Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document. Particulars to be included. The Committee requested the Government to modify the current cédula de inscricão marítima (seafarer’s identity document) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention. It notes the Government’s indication that measures will be taken to ensure that the cédula de inscricão marítima complies with the requirements of the Convention. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide a specimen of the modified cédula de inscricão marítima once adopted.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s reports on a number of maritime Conventions have not been received. In order to provide a comprehensive view of the issues to be addressed in relation to the application of these Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine them in a single comment, as follows. It requests once again the Government to provide information on the following points:

Repetition

The Committee had previously noted the Government’s indication that a comparative analysis of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) and national legislation had been carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, was before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. It had also noted that 22 merchant shipping vessels were registered in the territory of Guinea Bissau. It requests the Government to provide information on any developments with regard to the possible ratification of the MLC, 2006.

The Food and Catering (Ships’ Crews) Convention, 1946 (No. 68). Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information on the number of vessels falling within the scope of application of the Convention and on any legislative development giving effect to the Convention.

The Certification of Ships’ Cooks Convention, 1946 (No. 69). Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee had recalled that Convention No. 69 only allows the competent authority – not the captain – to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification, and solely in the event of an inadequate supply of certified ships’ cooks. It had also recalled that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the adoption of measures giving effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention.

The Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 1958 (No. 108). Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document. Particulars to be included. In its previous comments, the Committee drew the Government’s attention to the fact that Convention No. 108 was not revised by the MLC, 2006, and therefore the comments made under Convention No. 108 would not be affected by the preparations for the ratification of the MLC, 2006. The Committee requests the Government, once again, to modify the current seafarer’s identity document (cédula de inscricão marítima) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2017, published 107th ILC session (2018)

The Committee had previously noted the Government’s indication that a comparative analysis of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) and national legislation had been carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, was before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. It had also noted that 22 merchant shipping vessels were registered in the territory of Guinea Bissau. It requests the Government to provide information on any developments with regard to the possible ratification of the MLC, 2006.

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s reports on a number of maritime Conventions have not been received. In order to provide a comprehensive view of the issues to be addressed in relation to the application of these Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine them in a single comment, as follows. It requests once again the Government to provide information on the following points:

The Food and Catering (Ships’ Crews) Convention, 1946 (No. 68). Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information on the number of vessels falling within the scope of application of the Convention and on any legislative development giving effect to the Convention.

The Certification of Ships’ Cooks Convention, 1946 (No. 69). Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee had recalled that Convention No. 69 only allows the competent authority – not the captain – to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification, and solely in the event of an inadequate supply of certified ships’ cooks. It had also recalled that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the adoption of measures giving effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention.

The Medical Examination (Seafarers) Convention, 1946 (No. 73). Article 5 of the Convention. Period of validity of the medical certificate. In previous comments, the Committee had requested the Government to specify whether the period of validity of the medical certificate was two years (as mentioned in section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969) or three months (as indicated by the Government in its previous report). The Committee requests the Government to indicate which of these periods of validity for medical certificates is applicable.

The Certification of Able Seamen Convention, 1946 (No. 74). Article 2 of the Convention. Conditions for certification of able seamen. The Committee recalls the Government’s indication in previous reports that while the outdated Decree No. 15.969 of 15 October 1964 dealt with the subject matter of the Convention, the revised General Labour Law would include a chapter of maritime labour. It requests the Government to indicate any progress made in this regard and to transmit a copy of the new legal text once adopted.

The Paid Vacations (Seafarers) Convention (Revised), 1949 (No. 91). Article 10 of the Convention. Implementing legislation. The Committee recalls the Government’s indication in previous reports that the Convention was given only partial effect by the General Labour Law as no specific law had been adopted on maritime labour. It requests the Government to indicate any legislative amendments undertaken to fully implement the provisions of the Convention, and to transmit a copy of any new legal text.

The Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 1958 (No. 108). Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document. Particulars to be included. In its previous comments, the Committee drew the Government’s attention to the fact that Convention No. 108 was not revised by the MLC, 2006, and therefore the comments made under Convention No. 108 would not be affected by the preparations for the ratification of the MLC, 2006. The Committee requests the Government, once again, to modify the current seafarer’s identity document (cédula de inscricão marítima) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 5 of the Convention. Period of validity of the medical certificate. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is before the Popular National Assembly for consideration.

The Committee recalls that, in previous comments, it had asked the Government whether the period of validity of the medical certificate was two years (as mentioned in section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969) or three months (as indicated by the Government in its previous report). It therefore requests the Government to indicate which of these periods of validity for medical certificates is applicable.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It expects that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee takes note that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, in its earlier comments, it had emphasised that Convention No. 69 only allows the competent authority – not the captain – to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification, and solely in the event of an inadequate supply of certified ships’ cooks. The Committee had also recalled that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It expects that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 2 of the Convention. Conditions for certification of able seamen. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is in the Popular National Assembly. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that while the outdated Decree No. 15.969 of 15 October 1964 dealt with the subject matter of the Convention, the revised General Labour Law would include a chapter of maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any progress made in this regard and to transmit a copy of the new legal text once adopted.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It expects that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 10 of the Convention. Implementing legislation. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that the Convention was given only partial effect by the General Labour Act of 1986 as no specific law had been adopted on maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any legislative amendments undertaken to fully implement the provisions of the Convention, and to transmit a copy of any new legal text which may not have been previously communicated to the Office.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It expects that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document – Particulars to be included. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it has undertaken the process of ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and consequently is not in a position to submit a report on the application of the present Convention. However, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that Convention No. 108 is not revised by the MLC, 2006, and therefore the comments made under this Convention would not be affected by the preparations for the ratification of the MLC, 2006. The Committee once again requests the Government to modify the current seafarer’s identity document (cédula de inscricão marítima) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee requested the Government to provide updated information regarding the number of vessels covered by the Convention. The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received and observes that pursuant to available statistics, 22 merchant shipping vessels are registered in the territory of Guinea Bissau. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information on the number of vessels falling within the scope of application of the Convention and on any legislative development giving effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, according to the Government, no legislation had been adopted giving effect to the Convention. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that the provisions of Convention No. 92 have essentially been reproduced in Regulation 3.2, Standard A3.2 and Guideline B3.2 of the MLC, 2006, and therefore the application of the provisions of Convention No. 68 would facilitate the implementation of the corresponding provisions of the MLC, 2006. The Committee expresses the hope that legislation giving effect to the different provisions of the Convention will soon be adopted and requests the Government to provide information on any development, with regard to the ratification process and the effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee takes note that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, in its earlier comments, it had emphasised that Convention No. 69 only allows the competent authority – not the captain – to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification, and solely in the event of an inadequate supply of certified ships’ cooks. The Committee had also recalled that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that the minimum standards on training and qualification of ship’s cook have been incorporated in Regulation 3.2(3), Standard A3.2 and Guideline B3.2.2 of the MLC, 2006, and therefore the application of the provisions of Convention No. 69 would facilitate the implementation of the corresponding provisions of the MLC, 2006. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the adoption of legislation giving effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention and on the ratification process of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 5 of the Convention. Period of validity of the medical certificate. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is before the Popular National Assembly for consideration.

The Committee recalls that Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1954, which in particular sets the rules regarding seafarers’ medical examination, does not apply to vessels over 200 tonnes. The MLC, 2006, applies to all ships, whether publically or privately owned, that are ordinarily engaged in commercial activities, irrespective of their tonnage, pursuant to its Article II(4). Only ships engaged in fishing or in similar pursuits, ships of traditional build such as dhows and junks, and warships or naval auxiliaries are excluded from its scope of application.

Moreover, the Committee recalls that, in previous comments, it had asked the Government whether the period of validity of the medical certificate was two years (as mentioned in section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969) or three months (as indicated by the Government in its previous report). The Committee draws the Government’s attention to Standard A1.2(7)(a) of the MLC, 2006, which provides that a medical certificate will remain valid for a maximum period of two years unless the seafarer is under the age of 18, in which case the maximum period of validity will be one year, and unless a shorter period is required by reason of the specific duties to be performed by the seafarer concerned or under the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW). The Committee requests the Government to provide full particulars in reply to the question regarding the period of validity of seafarers’ medical certificates. The Committee requests the Government to provide information with regard to the process of ratification of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 2 of the Convention. Conditions for certification of able seamen. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is in the Popular National Assembly. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that while the outdated Decree No. 15.969 of 15 October 1964 dealt with the subject matter of the Convention, the revised General Labour Law would include a chapter of maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any progress made in this regard and to transmit a copy of the new legal text once adopted.

Further, the Committee recalls that, in the course of the negotiations that eventually led to the adoption of the MLC, 2006, it was agreed that the responsibility for seafarers’ training and certification – except for ships’ cooks – should be transferred to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and that the provisions of the present Convention would be eventually superseded by new mandatory provisions to be adopted under the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW Convention). The Committee notes, in this respect, that the Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code, adopted in June 2010 and entered into force on 1 January 2012, contain in Regulation II/5 new requirements for certification of ratings as able seafarers deck. Recalling that the Government continues to be bound by the provisions of Convention No. 74 until the MLC, 2006, enters into force for Guinea-Bissau, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments regarding the process of ratification of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 10 of the Convention. Implementing legislation. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is in the Popular National Assembly. The Committee recalls, in this regard, that the main provisions of this Convention have been incorporated into Regulation 2.4 and the corresponding Code of the MLC, 2006, and therefore ensuring compliance with the Convention would facilitate compliance with the corresponding requirements of the MLC, 2006. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that the Convention was given only partial effect by the General Labour Act of 1986 as no specific law had been adopted on maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any legislative amendments undertaken to fully implement the provisions of the Convention, and to transmit a copy of any new legal text which may not have been previously communicated to the Office. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on any further developments regarding the process of ratification of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document – Particulars to be included. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it has undertaken the process of ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and consequently is not in a position to submit a report on the application of the present Convention. However, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that Convention No. 108 is not revised by the MLC, 2006, and therefore the comments made under this Convention would not be affected by the preparations for the ratification of the MLC, 2006. The Committee once again requests the Government to modify the current seafarer’s identity document (cédula de inscricão marítima) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention.

The Committee seizes the opportunity to draw the Government’s attention to the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185), which revises Convention No. 108 and which was adopted to enhance port and border security, while at the same time facilitating the seafarer’s right to shore leave, by developing a more secure and globally uniform seafarer’s identity document. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any decisions with regard to the ratification of Convention No. 185.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that it has initiated the ratification process of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is, consequently, unable to report on the application of the present Convention. The Government indicates that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, in its earlier reports, the Government had declared that it had not adopted legislation giving effect to the Convention, and that only certain provisions adopted during the colonial period remained in force. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that the provisions of Convention No. 92 have essentially been reproduced in Regulation 3.2, Standard A3.2 and Guideline B3.2 of the MLC, 2006, and therefore the application of the provisions of Convention No. 68 would facilitate the implementation of the corresponding provisions of the MLC, 2006. The Committee expresses the hope that legislation giving effect to the different provisions of the Convention will soon be adopted and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any development, with regard to the ratification process and the effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that it has initiated the ratification process of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is, consequently, unable to report on the application of the present Convention. The Government indicates that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, in its earlier comments, it had emphasised that Convention No. 69 only allows the competent authority – not the captain – to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification, and solely in the event of an inadequate supply of certificated ships’ cooks. The Committee had also recalled that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that the minimum standards on training and qualification of ship’s cook have been incorporated in Regulation 3.2(3), Standard A3.2 and Guideline B3.2.2 of the MLC, 2006, and therefore the application of the provisions of Convention No. 69 would facilitate the implementation of the corresponding provisions of the MLC, 2006. The Committee expresses the hope that legislation giving effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention will soon be adopted and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any development, with regard to the ratification process and the effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 5 of the Convention. Period of validity of the medical certificate. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that it has initiated the ratification process of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is, consequently, unable to report on the application of the present Convention. The Government indicates that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration.

The Committee recalls that Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1954, which in particular sets the rules regarding seafarers’ medical examination, does not apply to vessels over 200 tonnes. The MLC, 2006, applies to all ships, whether publically or privately owned, that are ordinarily engaged in commercial activities, irrespective of their tonnage, pursuant to its Article II(4). Only ships engaged in fishing or in similar pursuits, ships of traditional build such as dhows and junks, and warships or naval auxiliaries are excluded from its scope of application.

Moreover, the Committee recalls that, in previous comments, it had asked the Government whether the period of validity of the medical certificate was two years (as mentioned in section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969) or three months (as indicated by the Government in its previous report). The Committee draws the Government attention to Standard A1.2(7)(a) of the MLC, 2006, which provides that a medical certificate will remain valid for a maximum period of two years unless the seafarer is under the age of 18, in which case the maximum period of validity will be one year, and unless a shorter period is required by reason of the specific duties to be performed by the seafarer concerned or under the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW). The Committee requests the Government to provide full particulars in reply to the question regarding the period of validity of seafarers’ medical certificates. The Committee expresses the hope that the Government will soon conclude the ratification process of MLC, 2006, and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any new development in that regard.

Finally, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the new Guidelines on the medical examinations of seafarers adopted by the Joint ILO–IMO Meeting on Medical Fitness Examination of Seafarers and Ships’ Medicine Chests, which took place in Geneva in September 2011. These Guidelines apply to seafarers in accordance with the requirements of the MLC, 2006, and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW Convention). They are intended to provide maritime administrations with an internationally recognized set of criteria for use by competent authorities, and contain in appendices, among others, a suggested format for recording medical examinations of seafarers and a model medical certificate for service at sea.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 2 of the Convention. Conditions for certification of able seamen. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that it is currently in the process of ratifying the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is therefore prevented from reporting on the application of the present Convention. The Government reports that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is now pending tabling in the Popular National Assembly. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that while the outdated Decree No. 15.969 of 15 October 1964 dealt with the subject matter of the Convention, the revised General Labour Law would include a chapter of maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any progress made in this regard and to transmit a copy of any new legal text which may not have been previously communicated to the Office.

Further, the Committee recalls that, in the course of the negotiations that eventually led to the adoption of the MLC, 2006, it was agreed that the responsibility for seafarers’ training and certification – except for ships’ cooks – should be transferred to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and that the provisions of the present Convention would be eventually superseded by new mandatory provisions to be adopted under the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW Convention). The Committee notes, in this respect, that the Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code, adopted in June 2010 and entered into force on 1 January 2012, contain in Regulation II/5 new requirements for certification of ratings as able seafarers deck. Recalling that the Government continues to be bound by the provisions of Convention No. 74 until the MLC, 2006, enters into force for Guinea-Bissau, the Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any developments regarding the process of ratification and effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 10 of the Convention. Implementing legislation. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that it is currently in the process of ratifying the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is therefore prevented from reporting on the application of the present Convention. The Government reports that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is now pending tabling in the Popular National Assembly. The Committee recalls, in this regard, that the main provisions of this Convention have been incorporated into Regulation 2.4 and the corresponding Code of the MLC, 2006, and therefore ensuring compliance with the Convention would facilitate compliance with the corresponding requirements of the MLC, 2006. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that the Convention was given only partial effect by the General Labour Act of 1986 as no specific law had been adopted on maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any legislative amendments undertaken to fully implement the provisions of the Convention, and to transmit a copy of any new legal text which may not have been previously communicated to the Office. The Committee also requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any further developments regarding the process of ratification and effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document – Particulars to be included. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it has undertaken the process of ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and consequently is not in a position to submit a report on the application of the present Convention. However, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that Convention No. 108 is not revised by the MLC, 2006, and therefore the comments made under this Convention would not be affected by the preparations for the ratification of the MLC, 2006. The Committee again expresses the hope that the Government will modify in the near future the current seafarer’s identity document (cédula de inscricão marítima) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention, and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any decision taken in this respect.

The Committee seizes the opportunity to draw the Government’s attention to the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185), which revises Convention No. 108 and which was adopted to enhance port and border security, while at the same time facilitating the seafarer’s right to shore leave, by developing a more secure and globally uniform seafarer’s identity document. The Committee hopes that the Government will consider the possibility of ratifying Convention No. 185 in the near future – ratification which would involve the automatic denunciation of Convention No. 108 – and requests it to keep the Office informed of any decision that it might take in this matter.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

Article 2 of the Convention. Conditions for certification of able seamen. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that it is currently in the process of ratifying the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is therefore prevented from reporting on the application of the present Convention. The Government reports that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is now pending tabling in the Popular National Assembly. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that while the outdated Decree No. 15.969 of 15 October 1964 dealt with the subject matter of the Convention, the revised General Labour Law would include a chapter of maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any progress made in this regard and to transmit a copy of any new legal text which may not have been previously communicated to the Office.

Further, the Committee recalls that, in the course of the negotiations that eventually led to the adoption of the MLC, 2006, it was agreed that the responsibility for seafarers’ training and certification – except for ships’ cooks – should be transferred to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and that the provisions of the present Convention would be eventually superseded by new mandatory provisions to be adopted under the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW Convention). The Committee notes, in this respect, that the Manila amendments to the STCW Convention and Code, adopted in June 2010 and entered into force on 1 January 2012, contain in Regulation II/5 new requirements for certification of ratings as able seafarers deck. Recalling that the Government continues to be bound by the provisions of Convention No. 74 until the MLC, 2006, enters into force for Guinea-Bissau, the Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any developments regarding the process of ratification and effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Article 1(3) of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that it has initiated the ratification process of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is, consequently, unable to report on the application of the present Convention. The Government indicates that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, in its earlier reports, the Government had declared that it had not adopted legislation giving effect to the Convention, and that only certain provisions adopted during the colonial period remained in force. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that the provisions of Convention No. 92 have essentially been reproduced in Regulation 3.2, Standard A3.2 and Guideline B3.2 of the MLC, 2006, and therefore the application of the provisions of Convention No. 68 would facilitate the implementation of the corresponding provisions of the MLC, 2006. The Committee expresses the hope that legislation giving effect to the different provisions of the Convention will soon be adopted and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any development, with regard to the ratification process and the effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention. Ship’s cook certificate of qualification. Examinations for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that it has initiated the ratification process of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is, consequently, unable to report on the application of the present Convention. The Government indicates that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration. The Committee further notes that, in its earlier comments, it had emphasised that Convention No. 69 only allows the competent authority – not the captain – to grant exemptions from the obligation of the ship’s cook to hold a certificate of qualification, and solely in the event of an inadequate supply of certificated ships’ cooks. The Committee had also recalled that it is for the national authority to make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that the minimum standards on training and qualification of ship’s cook have been incorporated in Regulation 3.2(3), Standard A3.2 and Guideline B3.2.2 of the MLC, 2006, and therefore the application of the provisions of Convention No. 69 would facilitate the implementation of the corresponding provisions of the MLC, 2006. The Committee expresses the hope that legislation giving effect to Articles 3 and 4 of the Convention will soon be adopted and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any development, with regard to the ratification process and the effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Article 5 of the Convention. Period of validity of the medical certificate. The Committee takes note of the Government’s indication that it has initiated the ratification process of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is, consequently, unable to report on the application of the present Convention. The Government indicates that a comparative analysis of the MLC, 2006, and national legislation was carried out with the Office’s assistance, and that the MLC, 2006, is currently before the Popular National Assembly for consideration.

The Committee recalls that Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1954, which in particular sets the rules regarding seafarers’ medical examination, does not apply to vessels over 200 tonnes. The MLC, 2006, applies to all ships, whether publically or privately owned, that are ordinarily engaged in commercial activities, irrespective of their tonnage, pursuant to its Article II(4). Only ships engaged in fishing or in similar pursuits, ships of traditional build such as dhows and junks, and warships or naval auxiliaries are excluded from its scope of application.

Moreover, the Committee recalls that, in previous comments, it had asked the Government whether the period of validity of the medical certificate was two years (as mentioned in section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969) or three months (as indicated by the Government in its previous report). The Committee draws the Government attention to Standard A1.2(7)(a) of the MLC, 2006, which provides that a medical certificate will remain valid for a maximum period of two years unless the seafarer is under the age of 18, in which case the maximum period of validity will be one year, and unless a shorter period is required by reason of the specific duties to be performed by the seafarer concerned or under the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW). The Committee requests the Government to provide full particulars in reply to the question regarding the period of validity of seafarers’ medical certificates. The Committee expresses the hope that the Government will soon conclude the ratification process of MLC, 2006, and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any new development in that regard.

Finally, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the new Guidelines on the medical examinations of seafarers adopted by the Joint ILO–IMO Meeting on Medical Fitness Examination of Seafarers and Ships’ Medicine Chests, which took place in Geneva in September 2011. These Guidelines apply to seafarers in accordance with the requirements of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW Convention). They are intended to provide maritime administrations with an internationally recognized set of criteria for use by competent authorities, and contain in appendices, among others, a suggested format for recording medical examinations of seafarers and a model medical certificate for service at sea.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Article 10 of the Convention. Implementing legislation. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that it is currently in the process of ratifying the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and that it is therefore prevented from reporting on the application of the present Convention. The Government reports that a gap analysis of the national maritime legislation has already been completed with the assistance of the Office and that the MLC, 2006, is now pending tabling in the Popular National Assembly. The Committee recalls, in this regard, that the main provisions of this Convention have been incorporated into Regulation 2.4 and the corresponding Code of the MLC, 2006, and therefore ensuring compliance with the Convention would facilitate compliance with the corresponding requirements of the MLC, 2006. Recalling the Government’s indication in previous reports that the Convention was given only partial effect by the General Labour Act of 1986 as no specific law had been adopted on maritime labour, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any legislative amendments undertaken to fully implement the provisions of the Convention, and to transmit a copy of any new legal text which may not have been previously communicated to the Office. The Committee also requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any further developments regarding the process of ratification and effective implementation of the MLC, 2006.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Article 4(2) of the Convention. Seafarer’s identity document – Particulars to be included. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it has undertaken the process of ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), and consequently is not in a position to submit a report on the application of the present Convention. However, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that Convention No. 108 is not revised by the MLC, 2006, and therefore the comments made under this Convention would not be affected by the preparations for the ratification of the MLC, 2006. The Committee again expresses the hope that the Government will modify in the near future the current seafarer’s identity document (cédula de inscricão marítima) in order to include a statement that the document is a seafarer’s identity document for the purpose of this Convention, and requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any decision taken in this respect.

The Committee seizes the opportunity to draw the Government’s attention to the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003 (No. 185), which revises Convention No. 108 and which was adopted to enhance port and border security, while at the same time facilitating the seafarer’s right to shore leave, by developing a more secure and globally uniform seafarer’s identity document. The Committee hopes that the Government will consider the possibility of ratifying Convention No. 185 in the near future – ratification which would involve the automatic denunciation of Convention No. 108 – and requests it to keep the Office informed of any decision that it might take in this matter.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 5 of the Convention. Medical certificate. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government to the effect that Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1964 is still applicable. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that the legislation providing that medical certificates are valid for three months is not available at the moment and will be transmitted to the Office as soon as possible. The Committee reminds the Government that according to section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1964 medical certificates are valid for two years. It therefore requests the Government to indicate which of these periods of validity for medical certificates is applicable.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 4(2) of the Convention. Particulars of seafarers’ identify document. The Committee notes from the specimen identity document (Cedula de Inscricao Maritima) sent by the Government that it still does not contain the required statement that it is the identity document issued for the purpose of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to include this statement in the identity document and to forward a modified specimen of the identity document.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Article 4 of the Convention. Certificates of qualification. The Committee notes that there is no naval school in the country, and that, therefore, the certificates of qualification are for internal use only. The Committee hopes that the state services and national institutions will soon be operating normally again, and that the necessary legislation and practical measures to implement the Convention will be put in place. The Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed about any progress made in this respect.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes from the specimen identity document (Cedula de Inscricao Maritima) sent by the Government that it still does not contain the required statement that it is the identity document issued for the purpose of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to include this statement in the identity document and to forward a modified specimen of the identity document.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 5 of the Convention. Medical certificate. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government to the effect that Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1964 is still applicable. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that the legislation providing that medical certificates are valid for three months is not available at the moment and will be transmitted to the Office as soon as possible. The Committee reminds the Government that according to section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1964 medical certificates are valid for two years. It therefore requests the Government to indicate which of these periods of validity for medical certificates is applicable.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes Government’s indication that Guinea-Bissau has no national fleet. While presently the outdated Decree 15.969 of 15 October 1964 deals with the subject matter of the Convention, the draft Labour Act will contain a chapter that will regulate certification of able seamen. The Committee asks the Government to transmit a copy of the new Labour Act once adopted.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that the General Labour Act of 1986 applies the provisions of the Convention, although it contains gaps. The draft Labour Act will regulate conditions of work of seafarers. The Committee asks the Government to transmit a copy of the new Labour Act, once adopted.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

The Committee notes that there is no naval school in the country, and that, therefore, the certificates of qualification are for internal use only. The Committee hopes that the state services and national institutions will soon be operating normally again, and that the necessary legislation and practical measures to implement the Convention will be put in place. The Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed about all progress made in this respect, and to continue to provide information with respect to its previous observation regarding Articles 3(2) and 4 of the Convention, as well as Part V of the report form.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes from the Government’s report that Guinea Bissau has no national fleet. While presently the outdated Decree 15.969 of 15 October 1964 deals with the subject matter of the Convention, the draft Labour Act will contain a chapter that will regulate certification of able seamen. The Committee asks the Government to transmit a copy of the new Labour Act once adopted.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes from the Government’s report that the General Labour Act of 1986 applies the provisions of the Convention, although it contains gaps. The draft Labour Act will regulate conditions of work of seafarers. The Committee asks the Government to transmit a copy of the new Labour Act, once adopted.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes the Government’s report and the fact that there is no naval school in the country and therefore the certificates of qualification are internal only. The Committee hopes that the state services and national institutions will soon be operating normally again, and that the necessary legislation and practical measures to implement the Convention will be put in place. The Committee requests the Government to keep it informed about all progress made in this respect, and to continue to provide information with respect to its previous observation regarding Article 3, paragraph 2, and Article 4 of the Convention, as well as Part V of the report form.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

Article 5 of the Convention. Medical certificate. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report to the effect that Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1964 is still applicable. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that the legislation providing that medical certificates are valid for three months is not available at the moment and will be transmitted to the Office as soon as possible. The Committee reminds the Government that according to section 187(6) of Decree No. 45.969 of 15 October 1964 medical certificates are valid for two years. It therefore requests the Government to indicate which of these periods of validity for medical certificates is applicable.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2004, published 93rd ILC session (2005)

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes from the specimen identity document (Cedula de Inscricao Maritima) sent by the Government that it still does not contain the required statement that it is the identity document issued for the purpose of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to include this statement in the identity document and to forward a modified specimen of the identity document.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the Government’s latest report indicating that Guinea-Bissau currently does not have vessels other that canoes, rafts and small dinghies which provide a link with the islands in the south of the country. The Committee requests the Government in its next reports to keep it informed on any developments in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the Government’s latest report. It requests the Government to provide further information on the following points.

Article 5 of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that medical certificates are valid for three months. Please indicate specific provisions of the national legislation which prescribe such period of validity of medical certificates.

Article 8. Please provide information on the practical application of section 187(7) of Decree No. 45.969.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that while Decree 45.969 of 15 October 1964 remains in force, it is outdated. Since there is no law specifically governing work on board vessels, there are difficulties in the application of the Convention in legal terms. The Committee further notes that the revision of the general labour law is currently under way which would include an addition of a special chapter dealing with work on board vessels. It would be grateful if the Government continued to supply information on any developments in this respect.

The Committee also notes that in practice the certificate of qualification could be granted to any person who completed professional training. It requests the Government to provide a sample copy of a certificate of qualification as an able seaman granted in accordance with the provisions of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the Government’s statement in its report that there are no national laws or regulations applying specifically to work on board ship as yet and that the general labour legislation has shortcomings in this respect. It also notes that a reform is currently being conducted by the Committee on the Revision of General Labour Law and that the latter is having considerable difficulty in carrying out its task.

The Committee points out to the Government that it may seek technical assistance from the Office in amending its national legislation to bring it into line with the provisions of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the information in the Government’s report and the photocopy of the identity document provided in the annex.

Article 4(2) of the Convention

The Committee notes that neither the photocopy of the identity document nor the previously sent Cedula de Inscricao Maritima contains the required statement that it is the identity document issued for the purpose of this Convention. The Committee requests the Government to include this statement and to forward a specimen of the modified identity document.

Article 4(6) of the Convention

The Committee requests the Government to provide details of the required consultations with shipowners’ and seafarers’ organizations concerning the precise form and content of the seafarers’ identity document.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

Article 3, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Government indicates in its report that, in certain cases, cooks without certificates may be engaged with the authorization of the master of the ship. The Committee recalls that, in accordance with the Convention, exemptions from the obligation to hold a certificate of qualification as a ship’s cook may only be granted by the competent national authority in cases where there is an inadequate supply of certificated ships’ cooks. The Committee hopes that the Government will take every appropriate measure to bring its legislation into conformity with this provision of the Convention.

Article 4. The Committee notes that, in accordance with section 141 of the Regulations on the Maritime Register, the Registration and Rotation of Ships in the Merchant and Fishing Fleet, examinations must in principle be organized to ascertain the capacity of ships’ cooks. It notes, however, that according to the Government’s report, this examination does not exist in practice. The Committee recalls that, in accordance with Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the competent authority shall make arrangements for the holding of examinations and for the granting of certificates of qualification. It hopes that the Government will be in a position to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations set out in the Convention.

Part V of the report form. The Government indicates in its report that the inspection services are currently experiencing difficulties in discharging their functions. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures which have been taken to resolve this problem and hopes that the Government will be in a position to provide the information requested in its next report.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's 1987 report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 459968 of 1964, all types of vessels intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be seagoing vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes from the Government's 1989 report that the number of vessels engaged in the coastal trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

The Committee further draws the Government's attention to the general direct request to forward a specimen of the seafarers' identity document with the 1998 report on the application of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's 1987 report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 459968 of 1964, all types of vessels intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be seagoing vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

The Committee notes with regret that once again the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

The Committee notes with regret that once again the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the following matters raised in its previous direct request:

The Committee notes from the Government's 1989 report that the number of vessels engaged in the coastal trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

The Committee further draws the Government's attention to the general direct request to forward a specimen of the seafarers' identity document with the 1998 report on the application of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1997, published 86th ILC session (1998)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1997, published 86th ILC session (1998)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the following matters raised in its previous direct request:

The Committee notes from the Government's 1989 report that the number of vessels engaged in the coastal trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

The Committee further draws the Government's attention to the general direct request to forward a specimen of the seafarers' identity document with the 1998 report on the application of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's 1987 report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be seagoing vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes from the Government's 1989 report that the number of vessels engaged in the coasting trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's 1987 report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be seagoing vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 82nd ILC session (1995)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 82nd ILC session (1995)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes from the Government's 1989 report that the number of vessels engaged in the coasting trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 82nd ILC session (1995)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's 1987 report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be seagoing vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes from the Government's 1989 report that the number of vessels engaged in the coasting trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be seagoing vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes from the Government's report that the number of vessels engaged in the coasting trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Following its previous direct request, the Committee notes with interest the information supplied by the Government in its last report. The Government communicated a copy of Decree No. 55/75 of October 1975, which gives partial effect to certain provisions of the Convention. The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be sea-going vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be sea-going vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1990, published 77th ILC session (1990)

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes from the Government's report that the number of vessels engaged in the coasting trade has increased and that new legislation is envisaged which will give effect to Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee hopes that measures will also be taken to ensure the application of Article 4, paragraph 2, and Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention, and that the Government's next report will contain information on this subject.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1989, published 76th ILC session (1989)

Following its previous direct request, the Committee notes with interest the information supplied by the Government in its last report. The Government communicated a copy of Decree No. 55/75 of October 1975, which gives partial effect to certain provisions of the Convention. The Committee notes that, under the terms of Act No. 2/86 (General Labour Act), industrial relations on board ship are regulated by special legislation taking into account the fundamental principles set forth in that Act. The Committee requests the Government to indicate in its next report any provisions adopted or envisaged under section 1(2) of the General Labour Act to give full effect to the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1988, published 75th ILC session (1988)

The Committee notes the statement in the Government's report that there are no vessels in the country covered by the Convention. In its report on Convention No. 69, the Government indicates, however, that a number of small vessels do make internal sea voyages of up to one day between the Bijagos Islands. The Committee recalls that under section 48 of Legislative Decree No. 45968 of 1964, all types of vessel intended to put to sea for commercial reasons are deemed to be sea-going vessels. Since Article 1 of the present Convention also requires the appropriate certification of any person engaged on any vessel as an able seaman, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would clarify the manner in which effect is now given to the Convention in this respect.