Guyana’s Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) says with effect from January 5, 2022, all seagoing vessels over 24 metres in length are required to have a copy of the Seafarers’ Employment Agreement, for each seafarer, on board.

The MARAD notice, directed to all ship owners, agents, managers, and operators involved in the recruitment and employment of Guyanese seafarers, said this requirement is in keeping with the Guyana Shipping Act, 1998 – Part VII: Section 115.

“Foreign flagged vessels operating in Guyana shall also submit to the same requirements,” MARAD said, pointing out that a specimen of the Seafarer Employment Agreement, for Guyana ships, can be obtained from the Registrar of Seafarers at MARAD’s Head Office in Kingston, Georgetown, via email – registrar-of seafarers@marad.gov.gy, or from the agency’s website: www.marad.gov.gy.

The Seafarers’ Employment Agreement outlines key details of employment including wages, hours of work, health and social security benefits and complaints and disciplinary procedures.

With the growth of the oil and gas industry in Guyana, the number of vessels operating offshore has grown exponentially since 2015 and this is expected to continue in coming years. These include drill ships, survey and supply units, FPSOs and multiple support vessels.