title: Ettepanek: Nõukogu otsus, millega volitatakse liikmesriike Euroopa Ühenduse huvides ratifitseerima Rahvusvahelise Tööorganisatsiooni konventsiooni meremeeste isikut tõendavate dokumentide kohta (konventsioon nr 185) (komisjoni esitatud)

text:
               EUROOPA ÜHENDUSTE KOMISJON
                                                 Brüssel 30.07.2004
                                                 KOM(2004) 530 lõplik
                                                 2004/0180 (CNS)
                                      Ettepanek:
                                NÕUKOGU OTSUS,
     millega volitatakse liikmesriike Euroopa Ühenduse huvides ratifitseerima
   Rahvusvahelise Tööorganisatsiooni konventsiooni meremeeste isikut tõendavate
                     dokumentide kohta (konventsioon nr 185)
                                 (komisjoni esitatud)
ET                                                                              ET
 ---pagebreak---                                         SELETUSKIRI
   Eesmärk
   1.     Rahvusvahelise Tööorganisatsiooni (edaspidi ILO) konventsioon nr 185 meremeeste
          isikut tõendavate dokumentide kohta (muudetud) (edaspidi “konventsioon”) võeti
          vastu 19. juunil 2003. aastal Genfis ILO üldkonverentsi raames, mille kutsus kokku
          Rahvusvahelise Tööbüroo administratiivnõukogu oma üheksakümne esimeseks
          istungjärguks.
   2.     Konventsiooni       lõppeesmärgiks      on      meremeeste     identifitseerimissüsteemi
          parandamine, mis kujutab endast vajalikku elementi merendussektori julgeoleku ja
          meremeeste korralike elu- ja töötingimuste edendamise vahelise tasakaalu tagamisel.
   3.     Nende eesmärkide saavutamiseks nähakse konventsioonis ette teatavad viisaeeskirjad
          meremeeste maaleminekul; samuti viidatakse meremeeste liikmesriikide
          territooriumile sisenemisele, eriti transiidi, üleviimise või kodumaale tagasisaatmise
          puhul. Vastavalt Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingu IV jaotisele (edaspidi
          “asutamisleping”) kuuluvad viisaküsimused ühenduse juba kasutatud pädevusse.
   4.     Selles kontekstis ja asutamislepinguga kehtestatud pädevuste jagamisest
          kinnipidamise tagamiseks teeb komisjon käesolevas dokumendis nõukogule
          ettepaneku, et nõukogu volitaks viisade osas ühenduse eeskirjadega seotud
          liikmesriike ühenduse huvides konventsiooni ratifitseerima.
   ILO konventsioon nr 185 meremeeste isikut tõendavate dokumentide kohta
   5.     Konventsioon vastab ILO põhimandaadile, milleks on meremeeste korralike elu- ja
          töötingimuste edendamine ja võtab arvesse asjaolu, et mereveonduse ülemaailmse
          iseloomu tõttu vajavad meremehed spetsiaalset kaitset.
   6.     Konventsiooni eesmärgiks on muuta meremeeste isikut tõendavad dokumendid
          turvalisemaks, et tagada selle abil oluline tasakaal ühelt poolt meretranspordi
          julgeoleku tugevdamise ja teisalt meremeeste maaleminekutingimuste lihtsustamise
          vahel riigis, mille kodanikud nad ei ole.
   7.     Sellest tulenevalt luuakse konventsiooniga biomeetriliste elementide kaasamise abil
          turvalisem meremeeste isiku tõendamise süsteem ja seetõttu ei ohusta
          konventsiooniga kehtestatud paindlikkus julgeolekut.
   8.     Konventsioon tunnustab 1958. aasta meremeeste isikut tõendavate dokumentide
          konventsiooni põhimõtteid, mis puudutavad meremeeste liikmesriikide
          territooriumile sisenemise hõlbustamist maaleminekuks, transiidiks, teisele laevale
          siirdumiseks või kodumaale tagasi pöördumiseks.
   9.     Selle meetme aluseks on asjaolu, et meremehed elavad ja töötavad rahvusvahelise
          kaubandusega tegelevatel laevadel ning et juurdepääs maal asuvatele rajatistele ja
          maalemineku lubamine on olulised meremeeste üldiseks heaoluks ja see aitab tagada
          laevanduse suurema turvalisuse.
ET                                                2                                                ET
 ---pagebreak---    10.   Seoses sellega nähakse konventsioonis ette teatavad viisaeeskirjad meremeeste
         maalemineku osas. Nii näeb konventsiooni artikli 6 punkt 6 muudetud kujul ette, et
         “meremeestelt ei nõuta maaleminekuks viisat. Iga liikmesriik, kes ei ole võimeline
         sellest ettekirjutusest täiel määral kinni pidama, peab jälgima, et tema seadused,
         määrused või tava näeks ette sisuliselt samaväärsed sätted”.
   11.   Muuhulgas käsitleb konventsiooni artikli 6 punkt 7 meremeeste transiidi, üleviimise
         ja kodumaale tagasipöördumise olukordi, sätestades, et “iga liikmesriik, kelle suhtes
         kehtib käesolev konventsioon, peab ühtlasi lubama nii kiiresti kui võimalik siseneda
         oma territooriumile kõigil meremeestel, kellel on olemas kehtiv meremeeste
         isikutunnistus koos passiga, kui territooriumile sisenemist taotletakse järgnevatel
         eesmärkidel:
         a) oma laevale minemiseks või teisele laevale üleviimisel;
         b) transiitületuseks, et minna oma laevale teises riigis või kodumaale
         tagasipöördumiseks või muuks eesmärgiks, mille asjakohase liikmesriigi
         võimuesindajad on heaks kiitnud. […]”
   12.   Asutamislepingu IV jaotis “Viisad, asüül, immigratsioon ja muu isikute vaba
         liikumisega seotud poliitika” toob sisse ühenduse üldise pädevuse kõigis
         viisapoliitika punktides, nii lühi- kui pikaaegsete viisade puhul (asutamislepingu
         artikli 62 punkti 2 alapunkt b ja artikli 63 punktid 3 ja 4). Eelkõige artikli 62 punkti 2
         alapunkt b esimene taane näeb ette, et meetmed, mis puudutavad kolmandate riikide
         loetelu, mille kodanikelt nõutakse välispiiri ületamisel viisat ja neid, kes on sellest
         kohustusest vabastatud, kuuluvad Euroopa Ühenduse pädevusse.
   13.   Ühendus on juba kasutanud oma pädevust selles valdkonnas, võttes vastu nõukogu
         15. märtsi 2001. aasta määruse (EÜ) nr 539/2001,1 milles loetletakse kolmandad
         riigid, kelle kodanikelt nõutakse välispiiri ületamisel viisat ja riigid, kelle kodanikud
         on sellest nõudest vabastatud.
   14.   Lisaks integreeris Amsterdami leping jõustumisel Schengeni acquis’ Euroopa Liidu
         raamistikku.2 Schengeni acquis sisaldab lühiajalise viisapoliitika sätteid, mille
         õiguslikuks aluseks on asutamislepingu artikli 62 punkti 2 alapunkt b.3
   15.   Täpsemalt käsitlevad välispiiride üldkäsiraamatu II osa punktid 6.5.2 ja 6.5.44
         tingimusi, mille alusel meremehed maale võivad minna ja meremeeste liikmesriikide
   1
       ELT L 81, 21.3.2001, muudetud nõukogu 7.detsembri.2001. aasta määrusega (EÜ) nr 2414/2001 ja 6.
       märtsi 2003. aasta määrusega nr 453/2003.
   2
       Protokoll, millega integreeritakse Schengeni acquis Euroopa Liidu raamistikku, lisatud Euroopa Liidu
       lepingule ja Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingule, EÜT C 340, 10.11.1997.
   3
       Nõukogu 20. mai 1999. aasta otsus 1999/435/EÜ mis käsitleb Schengeni acquis' määratlust, et
       kooskõlas Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingu ja Euroopa Liidu lepingu asjakohaste sätetega kindlaks
       määrata iga acquis'd moodustava sätte või otsuse õiguslik alus, ELT L 176, 10.7.1999, lk 1 ja nõukogu
       20. mai 1999. aasta otsus 1999/436/EÜ, millega määratakse kooskõlas Euroopa Ühenduse
       asutamislepingu ja Euroopa Liidu lepingu asjakohaste sätetega kindlaks iga Schengeni acquis'd
       moodustava sätte või otsuse õiguslik alus, ELT L 176, 10.7.1999, lk 17. Vastavalt nõukogu otsuse
       1999/435 artikli 1 lõikele 2 on Schengeni acquis’d moodustavad tekstid avaldatud (ELT L 239, 22.
       september 2000).
ET                                                   3                                                       ET
 ---pagebreak---            territooriumile sisenemist seoses transiidi, teisele laevale üleviimise ja kodumaale
           tagasipöördumisega.
   16.     Vastavalt Euroopa Kohtu AETR kohtupraktikale välispädevuste osas, pole
           liikmesriikidel enam vabadust enese initsiatiivil ratifitseerida ILO konventsiooni nr
           185 meremeeste isikut tõendavate dokumentide kohta, sest selle sätted, mis
           puudutavad viisavabastust meremeeste maaleminekul ja tingimusi meremeeste
           liikmesriikidesse sisenemisel transiidi, üleviimise või kodumaale tagasipöördumise
           eesmärgil, mõjutavad ühenduse pädevust nimetatud valdkonnas.
   Komisjoni ettepanek
   17.     Võttes arvesse eelnenud kaalutlusi, tuleks ühelt poolt säilitada ühenduse
           viisaeeskirjade kohaldamine ja teiselt poolt anda näidata selgelt ülejäänud maailmale
           , millist tähtsust ühendus sellele konventsioonile omistab.
   18.     Neid kaht eesmärki ühendav lähenemine oleks täielikus vastavuses konventsiooni
           eesmärgiga, milleks on seoses meremeeste isiku tõendamisega tagada meremeeste
           sisenemise hõlbustamine ühenduse viisaeeskirjadega seotud liikmesriikide
           territooriumile ning see võimaldaks liikmesriikidel realiseerida konventsiooni
           eesmärke.
   19.     ILO tööeeskirjadest tuleneb, et ratifitseerimisele eelnev allkirjastamine, mis
           eksisteerib teiste organisatsioonide puhul, on siin asendatud hääletamisprotseduuriga
           (toimus juunis rahvusvahelisel konverentsil), mis on võrdväärne allkirjaga, kuid
           konventsioon ei ole veel jõustunud. Komisjon ei osalenud neil läbirääkimistel, ehkki
           oli esindatud vaatleja näol. Liikmesriigid ja tööandjate ja töötajate esindajad osalesid
           läbirääkimistel ja konventsiooni vastuvõtmise hääletusel. Konventsiooniga võivad
           ühineda vaid riigid.
   20.     Komisjon on arvesse võtnud konventsiooni läbirääkimistel osalenud liikmesriikide
           poolthäält konventsiooni kasulikkuse osas meremeestele rahuldavate töötingimuste
           tagamise edendamisel, samuti konventsiooni varasema võimaliku jõustumise
           vajaduse osas.
   21.     Võttes arvesse asjaolu, et pädevus viisaküsimustes on ühenduse pädevus, teeb
           komisjon käesolevas dokumendis ettepaneku, et nõukogu volitaks ühenduse
           viisaeeskirjadega seotud liikmesriike ühenduse huvides konventsiooni ratifitseerima.
   22.     Sellist erandit ühenduse pädevuse Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingu artikli 300
           kohasest tavapärasest kasutamisest õigustab konventsiooni olulisus meremeestele ja
           konventsiooni võimalikult kiire jõustumise vajadus. See otsus peab siiski jääma
           erandlikuks ja ei tohi kujutada endast pretsedenti tulevasteks juhtudeks.
   4
         28. aprilli 1999. aasta otsus SCH/Com-ex(99)13 diplomaatilistele esindajatele ja konsulitele
         adresseeritud üldkäsiraamatu ja ühiste konsulaarjuhiste lõppversioonide kohta (ELT L 239, 22.9.2000,
         lk 317). Avaldatud on käsiraamatu kaasajastatud versioon – välja arvatud mõned konfidentsiaalsed lisad
         (ELT C 313, 16.12.2002, lk 97).
ET                                                     4                                                        ET
 ---pagebreak---    23.  Käesolev otsus lubab liikmesriikidel võtta viivitamata ratifitseerimiseks vajalikud
        meetmed. Muuhulgas võidakse kavandada ühised ratifitseerimismeetmed näitamaks
        ülejäänud maailmale, missugust tähtsust ühendus konventsioonile omistab.
   24.  Vastavalt Euroopa Liidu lepingule ja Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingule lisatud
        Taani seisukohta käsitleva protokolli artiklile 4 kohaldab nimetatud liikmesriik
        meetmeid, mis määratleb kolmandad riigid, kelle kodanikelt nõutakse välispiiri
        ületamisel viisat ja ühtse viisavormi kehtestamise meetmeid. Seega on ka Taani
        käesoleva otsuse adressaadiks.
   25.  Vastavalt Euroopa Liidu lepingule ja Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingule lisatud
        Ühendkuningriigi ja Iirimaa seisukohta käsitleva protokolli artiklile 1, ilma et see
        piiraks eelnimetatud protolkolli artiklit 4, ei kohaldata käesolevat otsust ei Iirimaal
        ega Ühendkuningriigis.
   26.  Käesolevat otsust tuleb käsitleda Schengeni acquis’ edasiarendusena, nii nagu see on
        määratletud nõukogu, Norra ja Islandi vahel 18. mail 1999. aastal sõlmitud lepingu A
        lisas, eesmärgiga kaasata need kaks riiki Schengeni acquis’ rakendamisse,
        kohaldamisse ja edasiarendamisse.5
   5
       ELT L 176, 10.7.1999, lk 35.
ET                                            5                                                 ET
 ---pagebreak---                                                            2004/0180 (CNS)
                                              Ettepanek:
                                         NÕUKOGU OTSUS,
             millega volitatakse liikmesriike Euroopa Ühenduse huvides ratifitseerima
        Rahvusvahelise Tööorganisatsiooni konventsiooni meremeeste isikut tõendavate
                               dokumentide kohta (konventsioon nr 185)
   EUROOPA LIIDU NÕUKOGU,
   võttes arvesse Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingut, eriti artikli 62 lõike 2 punkti b alapunkti i
   ja artikli 300 lõike 2 esimese lõigu esimest lauset ja lõike 3 esimest lõiku,
   võttes arvesse komisjoni ettepanekut,6
   võttes arvesse Euroopa Parlamendi arvamust,7
   ning arvestades järgmist:
   (1)      Euroopa Ühendus tegutseb vaba, turvalise ja õigusel rajaneva ala loomise huvides, mis
            põhineb muu hulgas ühisel viisapoliitikal.
   (2)      Rahvusvahelise Tööorganisatsiooni (edaspidi ILO) konventsioon nr 185 meremeeste
            isikut tõendavate dokumentide kohta (revideeritud) (edaspidi “konventsioon”) võeti
            vastu 19. juunil 2003. aastal Genfis ILO üldkonverentsi raames, mille kutsus kokku
            Rahvusvahelise Tööbüroo administratiivnõukogu.
   (3)      Eelnimetatud konventsioon aitab märkimisväärselt kaasa merendussektori julgeoleku
            parandamisele rahvusvahelisel tasandil ja meremeeste korralike elu- ja töötingimuste
            edendamisele, seetõttu on soovitav, et konventsiooni sätteid kohaldataks esimesel
            võimalusel.
   (4)      Teatavad konventsiooni artiklid kuuluvad ühenduse viisaküsimuste alasesse
            pädevusse.
   (5)      Seda konventsiooni ei saa ratifitseerida ühendus, ratifitseerimise osapoolteks võivad
            olla ainult liikmesriigid.
   (6)      Nõukogu peaks seetõttu volitama asutamislepingu artikli 62 punkti 2 lõike 2 punkti b
            alapunktile i vastavate ühenduse viisaeeskirjadega seotud liikmesriike ühenduse
            huvides ja käesoleva otsusega ettenähtud tingimustel konventsiooni ratifitseerima.
   6
            ELT C , , lk .
   7
            ELT C […], […], lk […].
ET                                                 6                                               ET
 ---pagebreak---    (7)    Vastavalt Euroopa Liidu lepingule ja Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingule lisatud
          Ühendkuningriigi ja Iirimaa seisukohta käsitleva protokolli artiklile 1 ei osale Iirimaa
          ja Ühendkuningriik käesoleva otsuse vastuvõtmisel. Seetõttu ja ilma et see piiraks
          eelnimetatud protokolli artikli 4 kohaldamist, ei kohaldata käesolevat otsust ei Iirimaal
          ega Ühendkuningriigis.
   (8)    Vastavalt Euroopa Liidu lepingule ja Euroopa Ühenduse asutamislepingule lisatud
          Taani seisukohta käsitleva protokolli artiklile 4 on Taani käesoleva otsuse
          adressaadiks.
   ON VASTU VÕTNUD KÄESOLEVA OTSUSE:
                                              Artikkel 1
   Liikmesriigid on volitatud ratifitseerima 19. juunil 2003. aastal vastu võetud konventsiooni
   meremeeste isikut tõendavate dokumentide kohta.
   Konventsiooni tekst on lisatud käesolevale otsusele.
                                              Artikkel 2
   1.       Liikmesriigid võtavad vajalikud meetmed esitamaks üheaegselt enne 1. detsembrit
            2005 Rahvusvahelise Tööbüroo peadirektorile konventsiooni ratifitseerimiseeskirjad
            .
   2.       Liikmesriigid vahetavad nõukogus komisjoniga teavet enne 1. juunit 2005 kuupäeva
            kohta, mis ajaks on arvatavalt lõpule jõudnud konventsiooni ratifitseerimiseks või
            sellega liitumiseks vajalik parlamentaarne menetlus. . Selle teabe alusel
            määratletakse üheaegse esitamise kuupäev ja kord.
                                              Artikkel 3
   Käesolev otsus     on    vastavalt   Euroopa    Ühenduse     asutamislepingule    adresseeritud
   liikmesriikidele.
   Brüssel,
                                               Nõukogu nimel
                                               eesistuja
ET                                                7                                                 ET
 ---pagebreak---                                                 ANNEX
                 C185 Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised), 2003
   Convention revising the Seafarers'Identity Documents Convention, 1958 (Note: This
   Convention has not yet come into force: )
   Convention:C185
   Place:Geneva
   Session of the Conference:91
   Date of adoption:19:06:2003
   Subject classification: Seafarers
   Subject: Seafarers
   Status: Up-to-date instrument This Convention was adopted after 1985 and is considered up
   to date.
   The General Conference of the International Labour Organization,
   Having been convened at Geneva by the Governing Body of the International Labour Office,
   and having met in its Ninety-first Session on 3 June 2003, and Mindful of the continuing
   threat to the security of passengers and crews and the safety of ships, to the national interest
   of States and to individuals, and
   Mindful also of the core mandate of the Organization, which is to promote decent conditions
   of work, and
   Considering that, given the global nature of the shipping industry, seafarers need special
   protection, and
   Recognizing the principles embodied in the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention, 1958,
   concerning the facilitation of entry by seafarers into the territory of Members, for the
   purposes of shore leave, transit, transfer or repatriation, and
   Noting the Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic, 1965, as
   amended, of the International Maritime Organization, in particular, Standards 3.44 and 3.45,
   and
   Noting further that United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/57/219 (Protection
   of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism) affirms that States
   must ensure that any measure taken to combat terrorism complies with their obligations under
   international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law, and
   Being aware that seafarers work and live on ships involved in international trade and that
   access to shore facilities and shore leave are vital elements of seafarers' general well-being
   and, therefore, to the achievement of safer shipping and cleaner oceans, and
   Being aware also that the ability to go ashore is essential for joining a ship and leaving after
   the agreed period of service, and
   Noting the amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as
   amended, concerning special measures to enhance maritime safety and security, that were
   adopted by the International Maritime Organization Diplomatic Conference on 12 December
   2002, and
ET                                                  8                                               ET
 ---pagebreak---    Having decided upon the adoption of certain proposals with regard to the improved security
   of seafarers' identification, which is the seventh item on the agenda of the session, and
   Having decided that these proposals shall take the form of an international Convention
   revising the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention, 1958,
   adopts this nineteenth day of June of the year two thousand and three, the following
   Convention, which may be cited as the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention (Revised),
   2003.
   Article 1
   SCOPE
   1. For the purposes of this Convention, the term seafarer means any person who is employed
   or is engaged or works in any capacity on board a vessel, other than a ship of war, ordinarily
   engaged in maritime navigation.
   2. In the event of any doubt whether any categories of persons are to be regarded as seafarers
   for the purpose of this Convention, the question shall be determined in accordance with the
   provisions of this Convention by the competent authority of the State of nationality or
   permanent residence of such persons after consulting with the shipowners' and seafarers'
   organizations concerned.
   3. After consulting the representative organizations of fishing-vessel owners and persons
   working on board fishing vessels, the competent authority may apply the provisions of this
   Convention to commercial maritime fishing.
   Article 2
   ISSUANCE OF SEAFARERS' IDENTITY DOCUMENTS
   1. Each Member for which this Convention is in force shall issue to each of its nationals who
   is a seafarer and makes an application to that effect a seafarers' identity document conforming
   to the provisions of Article 3 of this Convention.
   2. Unless otherwise provided for in this Convention, the issuance of seafarers' identity
   documents may be subject to the same conditions as those prescribed by national laws and
   regulations for the issuance of travel documents.
   3. Each Member may also issue seafarers' identity documents referred to in paragraph 1 to
   seafarers who have been granted the status of permanent resident in its territory. Permanent
   residents shall in all cases travel in conformity with the provisions of Article 6, paragraph 7.
   4. Each Member shall ensure that seafarers' identity documents are issued without undue
   delay.
   5. Seafarers shall have the right to an administrative appeal in the case of a rejection of their
   application.
   6. This Convention shall be without prejudice to the obligations of each Member under
   international arrangements relating to refugees and stateless persons.
   Article 3
ET                                                  9                                                ET
 ---pagebreak---    CONTENT AND FORM
   1. The seafarers' identity document covered by this Convention shall conform - in its content -
   to the model set out in Annex I hereto. The form of the document and the materials used in it
   shall be consistent with the general specifications set out in the model, which shall be based
   on the criteria set out below. Provided that any amendment is consistent with the following
   paragraphs, Annex I may, where necessary, be amended in accordance with Article 8 below,
   in particular to take account of technological developments. The decision to adopt the
   amendment shall specify when the amendment will enter into effect, taking account of the
   need to give Members sufficient time to make any necessary revisions of their national
   seafarers' identity documents and procedures.
   2. The seafarers' identity document shall be designed in a simple manner, be made of durable
   material, with special regard to conditions at sea and be machine-readable. The materials used
   shall:
   (a) prevent tampering with the document or falsification, as far as possible, and enable easy
   detection of alterations; and
   (b) be generally accessible to governments at the lowest cost consistent with reliably
   achieving the purpose set out in (a) above.
   3. Members shall take into account any available guidelines developed by the International
   Labour Organization on standards of the technology to be used which will facilitate the use of
   a common international standard.
   4. The seafarers' identity document shall be no larger than a normal passport. 5. The seafarers'
   identity document shall contain the name of the issuing authority, indications enabling rapid
   contact with that authority, the date and place of issue of the document, and the following
   statements:
   (a) this document is a seafarers' identity document for the purpose of the Seafarers' Identity
   Documents Convention (Revised), 2003, of the International Labour Organization; and
   (b) this document is a stand-alone document and not a passport.
   6. The maximum validity of a seafarers' identity document shall be determined in accordance
   with the laws and regulations of the issuing State and shall in no case exceed ten years,
   subject to renewal after the first five years.
   7. Particulars about the holder included in the seafarer's identity document shall be restricted
   to the following:
   (a) full name (first and last names where applicable);
   (b) sex;
   (c) date and place of birth;
   (d) nationality;
   (e) any special physical characteristics that may assist identification;
   (f) digital or original photograph; and
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 ---pagebreak---    (g) signature.
   8. Notwithstanding paragraph 7 above, a template or other representation of a biometric of the
   holder which meets the specification provided for in Annex I shall also be required for
   inclusion in the seafarers' identity document, provided that the following preconditions are
   satisfied:
   (a) the biometric can be captured without any invasion of privacy of the persons concerned,
   discomfort to them, risk to their health or offence against their dignity;
   (b) the biometric shall itself be visible on the document and it shall not be possible to
   reconstitute it from the template or other representation;
   (c) the equipment needed for the provision and verification of the biometric is user-friendly
   and is generally accessible to governments at low cost;
   (d) the equipment for the verification of the biometric can be conveniently and reliably
   operated in ports and in other places, including on board ship, where verification of identity is
   normally carried out by the competent authorities; and
   (e) the system in which the biometric is to be used (including the equipment, technologies and
   procedures for use) provides results that are uniform and reliable for the authentication of
   identity.
   9. All data concerning the seafarer that are recorded on the document shall be visible.
   Seafarers shall have convenient access to machines enabling them to inspect any data
   concerning them that is not eye-readable. Such access shall be provided by or on behalf of the
   issuing authority.
   10. The content and form of the seafarers' identity document shall take into account the
   relevant international standards cited in Annex I.
   Article 4
   NATIONAL ELECTRONIC DATABASE
   1. Each Member shall ensure that a record of each seafarers' identity document issued,
   suspended or withdrawn by it is stored in an electronic database. The necessary measures
   shall be taken to secure the database from interference or unauthorized access.
   2. The information contained in the record shall be restricted to details which are essential for
   the purposes of verifying a seafarers' identity document or the status of a seafarer and which
   are consistent with the seafarer's right to privacy and which meet all applicable data protection
   requirements. The details are set out in Annex II hereto, which may be amended in the
   manner provided for in Article 8 below, taking account of the need to give Members
   sufficient time to make any necessary revisions of their national database systems.
   3. Each Member shall put in place procedures which will enable any seafarer to whom it has
   issued a seafarers' identity document to examine and check the validity of all the data held or
   stored in the electronic database which relate to that individual and to provide for correction if
   necessary, at no cost to the seafarer concerned.
   4. Each Member shall designate a permanent focal point for responding to inquiries, from the
   immigration or other competent authorities of all Members of the Organization, concerning
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 ---pagebreak---    the authenticity and validity of the seafarers' identity document issued by its authority. Details
   of the permanent focal point shall be communicated to the International Labour Office, and
   the Office shall maintain a list which shall be communicated to all Members of the
   Organization.
   5. The details referred to in paragraph 2 above shall at all times be immediately accessible to
   the immigration or other competent authorities in member States of the Organization, either
   electronically or through the focal point referred to in paragraph 4 above.
   6. For the purposes of this Convention, appropriate restrictions shall be established to ensure
   that no data - in particular, photographs - are exchanged, unless a mechanism is in place to
   ensure that applicable data protection and privacy standards are adhered to.
   7. Members shall ensure that the personal data on the electronic database shall not be used for
   any purpose other than verification of the seafarers' identity document.
   Article 5
   QUALITY CONTROL AND EVALUATIONS
   1. Minimum requirements concerning processes and procedures for the issue of seafarers'
   identity documents, including quality-control procedures, are set out in Annex III to this
   Convention. These minimum requirements establish mandatory results that must be achieved
   by each Member in the administration of its system for issuance of seafarers' identity
   documents.
   2. Processes and procedures shall be in place to ensure the necessary security for:
   (a) the production and delivery of blank seafarers' identity documents;
   (b) the custody, handling and accountability for blank and completed seafarers' identity
   documents;
   (c) the processing of applications, the completion of the blank seafarers' identity documents
   into personalized seafarers' identity documents by the authority and unit responsible for
   issuing them and the delivery of the seafarers' identity documents;
   (d) the operation and maintenance of the database; and
   (e) the quality control of procedures and periodic evaluations.
   3. Subject to paragraph 2 above, Annex III may be amended in the manner provided for in
   Article 8, taking account of the need to give Members sufficient time to make any necessary
   revisions to their processes and procedures.
   4. Each Member shall carry out an independent evaluation of the administration of its system
   for issuing seafarers' identity documents, including quality-control procedures, at least every
   five years. Reports on such evaluations, subject to the removal of any confidential material,
   shall be provided to the Director-General of the International Labour Office with a copy to the
   representative organizations of shipowners and seafarers in the Member concerned. This
   reporting requirement shall be without prejudice to the obligations of Members under article
   22 of the Constitution of the International Labour Organisation.
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 ---pagebreak---    5. The International Labour Office shall make these evaluation reports available to Members.
   Any disclosure, other than those authorized by this Convention, shall require the consent of
   the reporting Member.
   6. The Governing Body of the International Labour Office, acting on the basis of all relevant
   information in accordance with arrangements made by it, shall approve a list of Members
   which fully meet the minimum requirements referred to in paragraph 1 above.
   7. The list must be available to Members of the Organization at all times and be updated as
   appropriate information is received. In particular, Members shall be promptly notified where
   the inclusion of any Member on the list is contested on solid grounds in the framework of the
   procedures referred to in paragraph 8.
   8. In accordance with procedures established by the Governing Body, provision shall be made
   for Members which have been or may be excluded from the list, as well as interested
   governments of ratifying Members and representative shipowners' and seafarers'
   organizations, to make their views known to the Governing Body, in accordance with the
   arrangements referred to above and to have any disagreements fairly and impartially settled in
   a timely manner.
   9. The recognition of seafarers' identity documents issued by a Member is subject to its
   compliance with the minimum requirements referred to in paragraph 1 above.
   Article 6
   FACILITATION OF SHORE LEAVE AND TRANSIT AND TRANSFER OF SEAFARERS
   1. Any seafarer who holds a valid seafarers' identity document issued in accordance with the
   provisions of this Convention by a Member for which the Convention is in force shall be
   recognized as a seafarer within the meaning of the Convention unless clear grounds exist for
   doubting the authenticity of the seafarers' identity document.
   2. The verification and any related inquiries and formalities needed to ensure that the seafarer
   for whom entry is requested pursuant to paragraphs 3 to 6 or 7 to 9 below is the holder of a
   seafarers' identity document issued in accordance with the requirements of this Convention
   shall be at no cost to the seafarers or shipowners.
   Shore leave
   3. Verification and any related inquiries and formalities referred to in paragraph 2 above shall
   be carried out in the shortest possible time provided that reasonable advance notice of the
   holder's arrival was received by the competent authorities. The notice of the holder's arrival
   shall include the details specified in section 1 of Annex II.
   4. Each Member for which this Convention is in force shall, in the shortest possible time, and
   unless clear grounds exist for doubting the authenticity of the seafarers' identity document,
   permit the entry into its territory of a seafarer holding a valid seafarer's identity document,
   when entry is requested for temporary shore leave while the ship is in port.
   5. Such entry shall be allowed provided that the formalities on arrival of the ship have been
   fulfilled and the competent authorities have no reason to refuse permission to come ashore on
   grounds of public health, public safety, public order or national security.
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 ---pagebreak---    6. For the purpose of shore leave seafarers shall not be required to hold a visa. Any Member
   which is not in a position to fully implement this requirement shall ensure that its laws and
   regulations or practice provide arrangements that are substantially equivalent.
   Transit and transfer
   7. Each Member for which this Convention is in force shall, in the shortest possible time, also
   permit the entry into its territory of seafarers holding a valid seafarers' identity document
   supplemented by a passport, when entry is requested for the purpose of:
   (a) joining their ship or transferring to another ship;
   (b) passing in transit to join their ship in another country or for repatriation; or any other
   purpose approved by the authorities of the Member concerned.
   8. Such entry shall be allowed unless clear grounds exist for doubting the authenticity of the
   seafarers' identity document, provided that the competent authorities have no reason to refuse
   entry on grounds of public health, public safety, public order or national security.
   9. Any Member may, before permitting entry into its territory for one of the purposes
   specified in paragraph 7 above, require satisfactory evidence, including documentary
   evidence of a seafarer's intention and ability to carry out that intention. The Member may also
   limit the seafarer's stay to a period considered reasonable for the purpose in question.
   Article 7
   CONTINUOUS POSSESSION AND WITHDRAWAL
   1. The seafarers' identity document shall remain in the seafarer's possession at all times,
   except when it is held for safekeeping by the master of the ship concerned, with the seafarer's
   written consent.
   2. The seafarers' identity document shall be promptly withdrawn by the issuing State if it is
   ascertained that the seafarer no longer meets the conditions for its issue under this
   Convention. Procedures for suspending or withdrawing seafarers' identity documents shall be
   drawn up in consultation with the representative shipowners' and seafarers' organizations and
   shall include procedures for administrative appeal.
   Article 8
   AMENDMENT OF THE ANNEXES
   1. Subject to the relevant provisions of this Convention, amendments to the Annexes may be
   made by the International Labour Conference, acting on the advice of a duly constituted
   tripartite maritime body of the International Labour Organization. The decision shall require a
   majority of two-thirds of the votes cast by the delegates present at the Conference, including
   at least half the Members that have ratified this Convention.
   2. Any Member that has ratified this Convention may give written notice to the Director-
   General within six months of the date of the adoption of such an amendment that it shall not
   enter into force for that Member, or shall only enter into force at a later date upon subsequent
   written notification.
   Article 9
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 ---pagebreak---    TRANSITIONAL PROVISION
   Any Member which is a party to the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention, 1958, and
   which is taking measures, in accordance with article 19 of the Constitution of the
   International Labour Organisation, with a view to ratification of this Convention may notify
   the Director-General of its intention to apply the present Convention provisionally. A
   seafarers' identity document issued by such a Member shall be treated for the purposes of this
   Convention as a seafarers' identity document issued under it provided that the requirements of
   Articles 2 to 5 of this Convention are fulfilled and that the Member concerned accepts
   seafarers' identity documents issued under this Convention.
   FINAL PROVISIONS
   Article 10
   This Convention revises the Seafarers' Identity Documents Convention, 1958.
   Article 11
   The formal ratifications of this Convention shall be communicated to the Director-General of
   the International Labour Office for registration.
   Article 12
   1. This Convention shall be binding only upon those Members of the International Labour
   Organization whose ratifications have been registered with the Director-General.
   2. It shall come into force six months after the date on which the ratifications of two Members
   have been registered with the Director-General.
   3. Thereafter, this Convention shall come into force for any Member six months after the date
   on which its ratification has been registered.
   Article 13
   1. A Member which has ratified this Convention may denounce it after the expiration of ten
   years from the date on which the Convention first comes into force, by an act communicated
   to the Director-General for registration. Such denunciation shall take effect twelve months
   after the date on which it is registered.
   2. Each Member which has ratified this Convention and which does not, within the year
   following the expiration of the period of ten years mentioned in the preceding paragraph,
   exercise the right of denunciation provided for in this Article, shall be bound for another
   period of ten years and, thereafter, may denounce this Convention at the expiration of each
   period of ten years under the terms provided for in this Article.
   Article 14
   1. The Director-General shall notify all Members of the registration of all ratifications,
   declarations and acts of denunciation communicated by the Members.
   2. When notifying the Members of the registration of the second ratification of this
   Convention, the Director-General shall draw the attention of the Members to the date upon
   which the Convention shall come into force.
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 ---pagebreak---    3. The Director-General shall notify all Members of the registration of any amendments made
   to the Annexes in accordance with Article 8, as well as of notifications relating thereto.
   Article 15
   The Director-General of the International Labour Office shall communicate to the Secretary-
   General of the United Nations, for registration in accordance with article 102 of the Charter of
   the United Nations, full particulars of all ratifications, declarations and acts of denunciation
   registered by the Director-General in accordance with the provisions of the preceding
   Articles.
   Article 16
   At such times as it may consider necessary, the Governing Body of the International Labour
   Office shall present to the General Conference a report on the working of this Convention and
   shall examine the desirability of placing on the agenda of the Conference the question of its
   revision in whole or in part, taking account also of the provisions of Article 8.
   Article 17
   1. Should the Conference adopt a new Convention revising this Convention in whole or in
   part, then, unless the new Convention otherwise provides:
   (a) the ratification by a Member of the new revising Convention shall ipso jure involve the
   immediate denunciation of this Convention, notwithstanding the provisions of Article 13, if
   and when the new revising Convention shall have come into force;
   (b) as from the date when the new revising Convention comes into force, this Convention
   shall cease to be open to ratification by the Members.
   2. This Convention shall in any case remain in force in its actual form and content for those
   Members which have ratified it but have not ratified the revising Convention.
   Article 18
   The English and French versions of the text of this Convention are equally authoritative.
   ANNEX
   Annex I
   Model for seafarers' identity document
   The seafarers' identity document, whose form and content are set out below, shall consist of
   good-quality materials which, as far as practicable, having regard to considerations such as
   cost, are not easily accessible to the general public. The document shall have no more space
   than is necessary to contain the information provided for by the Convention.
   It shall contain the name of the issuing State and the following statement:
   "This document is a seafarers' identity document for the purpose of the Seafarers' Identity
   Documents Convention (Revised), 2003, of the International Labour Organization. This
   document is a stand-alone document and not a passport."
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 ---pagebreak---    The data page(s) of the document indicated in bold below shall be protected by a laminate or
   overlay, or by applying an imaging technology and substrate material that provide an
   equivalent resistance to substitution of the portrait and other biographical data.
   The materials used, dimensions and placement of data shall conform to the International Civil
   Aviation Organization (ICAO) specifications as contained in Document 9303 Part 3 (2nd
   edition, 2002) or Document 9303 Part 1 (5th edition, 2003).
   Other security features shall include at least one of the following features:
   Watermarks, ultraviolet security features, use of special inks, special colour designs,
   perforated images, holograms, laser engraving, micro-printing, and heat-sealed lamination.
   Data to be entered on the data page(s) of the seafarers' identity document shall be restricted to:
   I. Issuing authority:
   II. Telephone number(s), email and web site of the authority:
   III. Date and place of issue:
   ------ Digital or original photograph of seafarer ---------
   (a) Full name of seafarer:
   (b) Sex:
   (c) Date and place of birth:
   (d) Nationality:
   (e) Any special physical characteristics of seafarer that may assist identification:
   (f) Signature:
   (g) Date of expiry:
   (h) Type or designation of document:
   (i) Unique document number:
   (j) Personal identification number (optional):
   (k) Biometric template based on a fingerprint printed as numbers in a bar code conforming to
   a standard to be developed:
   (l) A machine-readable zone conforming to ICAO specifications in Document 9303 specified
   above.
   IV. Official seal or stamp of the issuing authority.
   Explanation of data
   The captions on fields on the data page(s) above may be translated into the language(s) of the
   issuing State. If the national language is other than English, French or Spanish, the captions
   shall also be entered in one of these languages.
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 ---pagebreak---    The Roman alphabet should be used for all entries in this document.
   The information listed above shall have the following characteristics:
   I. Issuing authority: ISO code for the issuing State and the name and full address of the office
   issuing the seafarers' identity document as well as the name and position of the person
   authorizing the issue.
   II. The telephone number, email and web site shall correspond to the links to the focal point
   referred to in the Convention.
   III. Date and place of issue: the date shall be written in two-digit Arabic numerals in the form
   day/month/year - e.g. 31/12/03; the place shall be written in the same way as on the national
   passport.
   -------- Size of the portrait photograph: as in ICAO Document 9303 specified above -------
   (a) Full name of seafarer: where applicable, family name shall be written first, followed by the
   seafarer's other names;
   (b) Sex: specify "M" for male or "F" for female;
   (c) Date and place of birth: the date shall be written in two-digit Arabic numerals in the form
   day/month/year; the place shall be written in the same way as on the national passport;
   (d) Statement of nationality: specify nationality;
   (e) Special physical characteristics: any evident characteristics assisting identification;
   (f) Signature of seafarer;
   (g) Date of expiry: in two-digit Arabic numerals in the form day/month/year;
   (h) Type or designation of document: character code for document type, written in capitals in
   the Roman alphabet (S);
   (i) Unique document number: country code (see I above) followed by an alphanumeric book
   inventory number of no more than nine characters;
   (j) Personal identification number: optional personal identification number of the seafarer;
   identification number of no more than 14 alphanumeric characters;
   (k) Biometric template: precise specification to be developed;
   (l) Machine-readable zone: according to ICAO Document 9303 specified above. <
   Annex II
   Electronic database
   The details to be provided for each record in the electronic database to be maintained by each
   Member in accordance with Article 4, paragraphs 1, 2, 6 and 7 of this Convention shall be
   restricted to:
   Section 1
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 ---pagebreak---    1. Issuing authority named on the identity document.
   2. Full name of seafarer as written on the identity document.
   3. Unique document number of the identity document.
   4. Date of expiry or suspension or withdrawal of the identity document.
   Section 2
   5. Biometric template appearing on the identity document.
   6. Photograph.
   7. Details of all inquiries made concerning the seafarers' identity document.
   Annex III
   Requirements and recommended procedures and practices concerning the issuance of
   seafarers' identity documents
   This Annex sets out minimum requirements relating to procedures to be adopted by each
   Member in accordance with Article 5 of this Convention, with respect to the issuance of
   seafarers' identity documents (referred to below as "SIDs"), including quality-control
   procedures.
   Part A lists the mandatory results that must be achieved, as a minimum, by each Member, in
   implementing a system of issuance of SIDs.
   Part B recommends procedures and practices for achieving those results. Part B is to be given
   full consideration by Members, but is not mandatory.
   Part A.Mandatory results
   1. Production and delivery of blank SIDs
   Processes and procedures are in place to ensure the necessary security for the production and
   delivery of blank SIDs, including the following:
   (a) all blank SIDs are of uniform quality and meet the specifications in content and form as
   contained in Annex I;
   (b) the materials used for production are protected and controlled;
   (c) blank SIDs are protected, controlled, identified and tracked during the production and
   delivery processes;
   (d) producers have the means of properly meeting their obligations in relation to the
   production and delivery of blank SIDs;
   (e) the transport of the blank SIDs from the producer to the issuing authority is secure.
   2. Custody, handling and accountability for blank and completed SIDs
   Processes and procedures are in place to ensure the necessary security for the custody,
   handling and accountability for blank and completed SIDs, including the following:
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 ---pagebreak---    (a) the custody and handling of blank and completed SIDs is controlled by the issuing
   authority;
   (b) blank, completed and voided SIDs, including those used as specimens, are protected,
   controlled, identified and tracked;
   (c) personnel involved with the process meet standards of reliability, trustworthiness and
   loyalty required by their positions and have appropriate training;
   (d) the division of responsibilities among authorized officials is designed to prevent the
   issuance of unauthorized SIDs.
   3. Processing of applications; suspension or withdrawal of SIDs; appeal procedures
   Processes and procedures are in place to ensure the necessary security for the processing of
   applications, the completion of the blank SIDs into personalized SIDs by the authority and
   unit responsible for issuing them, and the delivery of the SIDs, including:
   (a) processes for verification and approval ensuring that SIDs, when first applied for and
   when renewed, are issued only on the basis of:
   (i) applications completed with all information required by Annex I,
   (ii) proof of identity of the applicant in accordance with the law and practice of the issuing
   State,
   (iii) proof of nationality or permanent residence,
   (iv) proof that the applicant is a seafarer within the meaning of Article 1,
   (v) assurance that applicants, especially those with more than one nationality or having the
   status of permanent residents, are not issued with more than one SID,
   (vi) verification that the applicant does not constitute a risk to security, with proper respect for
   the fundamental rights and freedoms set out in international instruments.
   (b) the processes ensure that:
   (i) the particulars of each item contained in Annex II are entered in the database
   simultaneously with issuance of the SID,
   (ii) the data, photograph, signature and biometric gathered from the applicant correspond to
   the applicant, and
   (iii) the data, photograph, signature and biometric gathered from the applicant are linked to
   the application throughout the processing, issuance and delivery of the SID.
   (c) prompt action is taken to update the database when an issued SID is suspended or
   withdrawn;
   (d) an extension and/or renewal system has been established to provide for circumstances
   where a seafarer is in need of extension or renewal of his or her SID and in circumstances
   where the SID is lost;
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 ---pagebreak---    (e) the circumstances in which SIDs may be suspended or withdrawn are established in
   consultation with shipowners' and seafarers' organizations;
   (f) effective and transparent appeal procedures are in place.
   4. Operation, security and maintenance of the database
   Processes and procedures are in place to ensure the necessary security for the operation and
   maintenance of the database, including the following:
   (a) the database is secure from tampering and from unauthorized access;
   (b) data are current, protected against loss of information and available for query at all times
   through the focal point;
   (c) databases are not appended, copied, linked or written to other databases; information from
   the database is not used for purposes other than authenticating the seafarers' identity;
   (d) the individual's rights are respected, including:
   (i) the right to privacy in the collection, storage, handling and communication of personal
   data; and
   (ii) the right of access to data concerning him or her and to have any inaccuracies corrected in
   a timely manner.
   5. Quality control of procedures and periodic evaluations
   (a) Processes and procedures are in place to ensure the necessary security through the quality
   control of procedures and periodic evaluations, including the monitoring of processes, to
   ensure that required performance standards are met, for:
   (i) production and delivery of blank SIDs,
   (ii) custody, handling and accountability for blank, voided and personalized SIDs,
   (iii) processing of applications, completion of blank SIDs into personalized SIDs by the
   authority and unit responsible for issuance and delivery,
   (iv) operation, security and maintenance of the database.
   (b) Periodic reviews are carried out to ensure the reliability of the issuance system and of the
   procedures and their conformity with the requirements of this Convention.
   (c) Procedures are in place to protect the confidentiality of information contained in reports on
   periodic evaluations provided by other ratifying Members.
   Part B. Recommended procedures and practices
   1. Production and delivery of blank SIDs
   1.1. In the interest of security and uniformity of SIDs, the competent authority should select
   an effective source for the production of blank SIDs to be issued by the Member.
   1.2. If the blanks are to be produced on the premises of the authority responsible for the
   issuance of SIDs ("the issuing authority"), section 2.2 below applies.
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 ---pagebreak---    1.3. If an outside enterprise is selected, the competent authority should:
   1.3.1. check that the enterprise is of undisputed integrity, financial stability and reliability;
   1.3.2. require the enterprise to designate all the employees who will be engaged in the
   production of blank SIDs;
   1.3.3. require the enterprise to furnish the authority with proof that demonstrates that there are
   adequate systems in place to ensure the reliability, trustworthiness and loyalty of designated
   employees and to satisfy the authority that it provides each such employee with adequate
   means of subsistence and adequate job security;
   1.3.4. conclude a written agreement with the enterprise which, without prejudice to the
   authority's own responsibility for SIDs, should, in particular, establish the specifications and
   directions referred to under section 1.5 below and require the enterprise:
   1.3.4.1. to ensure that only the designated employees, who must have assumed strict
   obligations of confidentiality, are engaged in the production of the blank SIDs;
   1.3.4.2. to take all necessary security measures for the transport of the blank SIDs from its
   premises to the premises of the issuing authority. Issuing agents cannot be absolved from the
   liability on the grounds that they are not negligent in this regard;
   1.3.4.3. to accompany each consignment with a precise statement of its contents; this
   statement should, in particular, specify the reference numbers of the SIDs in each package.
   1.3.5. ensure that the agreement includes a provision to allow for completion if the original
   contractor is unable to continue;
   1.3.6. satisfy itself, before signing the agreement, that the enterprise has the means of properly
   performing all the above obligations.
   1.4. If the blank SIDs are to be supplied by an authority or enterprise outside the Member's
   territory, the competent authority of the Member may mandate an appropriate authority in the
   foreign country to ensure that the requirements recommended in this section are met.
   1.5. The competent authority should inter alia:
   1.5.1. establish detailed specifications for all materials to be used in the production of the
   blank SIDs; these materials should conform to the general specifications set out in Annex I to
   this Convention;
   1.5.2. establish precise specifications relating to the form and content of the blank SIDs as set
   out in Annex I;
   1.5.3. ensure that the specifications enable uniformity in the printing of blank SIDs if different
   printers are subsequently used;
   1.5.4. provide clear directions for the generation of a unique document number to be printed
   on each blank SID in a sequential manner in accordance with Annex I; and
   1.5.5. establish precise specifications governing the custody of all materials during the
   production process.
   2. Custody, handling and accountability for blank and completed SIDs
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 ---pagebreak---    2.1. All operations relating to the issuance process (including the custody of blank, voided
   and completed SIDs, the implements and materials for completing them, the processing of
   applications, the issuance of SIDs, the maintenance and the security of databases) should be
   carried out under the direct control of the issuing authority.
   2.2. The issuing authority should prepare an appraisal of all officials involved in the issuance
   process establishing, in the case of each of them, a record of reliability, trustworthiness and
   loyalty.
   2.3. The issuing authority should ensure that no officials involved in the issuance process are
   members of the same immediate family.
   2.4. The individual responsibilities of the officials involved in the issuance process should be
   adequately defined by the issuing authority.
   2.5. No single official should be responsible for carrying out all the operations required in the
   processing of an application for a SID and the preparation of the corresponding SID. The
   official who assigns applications to an official responsible for issuing SIDs should not be
   involved in the issuance process. There should be a rotation in the officials assigned to the
   different duties related to the processing of applications and the issuance of SIDs.
   2.6. The issuing authority should draw up internal rules ensuring:
   2.6.1. that the blank SIDs are kept secured and released only to the extent necessary to meet
   expected day-to-day operations and only to the officials responsible for completing them into
   personalized SIDs or to any specially authorized official, and that surplus blank SIDs are
   returned at the end of each day; measures to secure SIDs should be understood as including
   the use of devices for the prevention of unauthorized access and detection of intruders;
   2.6.2. that any blank SIDs used as specimens are defaced and marked as such;
   2.6.3. that each day a record, to be stored in a safe place, is maintained of the whereabouts of
   each blank SID and of each personalized SID that has not yet been issued, also identifying
   those that are secured and those that are in the possession of a specified official or officials;
   the record should be maintained by an official who is not involved in the handling of the
   blank SIDs or SIDs that have not yet been issued;
   2.6.4. that no person should have access to the blank SIDs and to the implements and
   materials for completing them other than the officials responsible for completing the blank
   SIDs or any specially authorized official;
   2.6.5. that each personalized SID is kept secured and released only to the official responsible
   for issuing the SID or to any specially authorized official;
   2.6.5.1. the specially authorized officials should be limited to:
   (a) persons acting under the written authorization of the executive head of the authority or of
   any person officially representing the executive head, and
   (b) the controller referred to in section 5 below and persons appointed to carry out an audit or
   other control;
   2.6.6. that officials are strictly prohibited from any involvement in the issuance process for a
   SID applied for by a member of their family or a close friend;
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 ---pagebreak---    2.6.7. that any theft or attempted theft of SIDs or of implements or materials for personalizing
   them should be promptly reported to the police authorities for investigation.
   2.7. Errors in the issuance process should invalidate the SID concerned, which may not be
   corrected and issued.
   3. Processing of applications; suspension or withdrawal of SIDs; appeal procedures
   3.1. The issuing authority should ensure that all officials with responsibility concerning the
   review of applications for SIDs have received relevant training in fraud detection and in the
   use of computer technology.
   3.2. The issuing authority should draw up rules ensuring that SIDs are issued only on the basis
   of: an application completed and signed by the seafarer concerned; proof of identity; proof of
   nationality or permanent residence; and proof that the applicant is a seafarer.
   3.3. The application should contain all the information specified as mandatory in Annex I to
   this Convention. The application form should require applicants to note that they will be
   liable to prosecution and penal sanctions if they make any statement that they know to be
   false.
   3.4. When a SID is first applied for, and whenever subsequently considered necessary on the
   occasion of a renewal:
   3.4.1. the application, completed except for the signature, should be presented by the
   applicant in person, to an official designated by the issuing authority;
   3.4.2. a digital or original photograph and the biometric of the applicant should be taken under
   the control of the designated official;
   3.4.3. the application should be signed in the presence of the designated official;
   3.4.4. the application should then be transmitted by the designated official directly to the
   issuing authority for processing.
   3.5. Adequate measures should be adopted by the issuing authority to ensure the security and
   the confidentiality of the digital or original photograph and the biometric.
   3.6. The proof of identity provided by the applicant should be in accordance with the laws and
   practice of the issuing State. It may consist of a recent photograph of the applicant, certified
   as being a true likeness of him or her by the shipowner or shipmaster or other employer of the
   applicant or the director of the applicant's training establishment.
   3.7. The proof of nationality or permanent residence will normally consist of the applicant's
   passport or certificate of admission as a permanent resident.
   3.8. Applicants should be asked to declare all other nationalities that they may possess and
   affirm that they have not been issued with and have not applied for a SID from any other
   Member.
   3.9. The applicant should not be issued with a SID for so long as he or she possesses another
   SID.
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 ---pagebreak---    3.9.1. An early renewal system should apply in circumstances where a seafarer is aware in
   advance that the period of service is such that he or she will be unable to make his or her
   application at the date of expiry or renewal;
   3.9.2. An extension system should apply in circumstances where an extension of a SID is
   required due to an unforeseen extension of the period of service;
   3.9.3. A replacement system should apply in circumstances where a SID is lost. A suitable
   temporary document can be issued.
   3.10. The proof that the applicant is a seafarer, within the meaning of Article 1 of this
   Convention should at least consist of:
   3.10.1. a previous SID, or a seafarers' discharge book; or
   3.10.2. a certificate of competency, qualification or other relevant training; or
   3.10.3. equally cogent evidence.
   3.11. Supplementary proof should be sought where deemed appropriate.
   3.12. All applications should be subject to at least the following verifications by a competent
   official of the issuing authority of SIDs:
   3.12.1. verification that the application is complete and shows no inconsistency raising doubts
   as to the truth of the statements made;
   3.12.2. verification that the details given and the signature correspond to those on the
   applicant's passport or other reliable document;
   3.12.3. verification, with the passport authority or other competent authority, of the
   genuineness of the passport or other document produced; where there is reason to doubt the
   genuineness of the passport, the original should be sent to the authority concerned; otherwise,
   a copy of the relevant pages may be sent;
   3.12.4. comparison of the photograph provided, where appropriate, with the digital
   photograph referred to in section 3.4.2 above;
   3.12.5. verification of the apparent genuineness of the certification referred to in section 3.6
   above;
   3.12.6. verification that the proof referred to in section 3.10 substantiates that the applicant is
   indeed a seafarer;
   3.12.7. verification, in the database referred to in Article 4 of the Convention, to ensure that a
   person corresponding to the applicant has not already been issued with a SID; if the applicant
   has or may have more than one nationality or any permanent residence outside the country of
   nationality, the necessary inquiries should also be made with the competent authorities of the
   other country or countries concerned;
   3.12.8. verification, in any relevant national or international database that may be accessible
   to the issuing authority, to ensure that a person corresponding to the applicant does not
   constitute a possible security risk.
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 ---pagebreak---    3.13. The official referred to in section 3.12 above should prepare brief notes for the record
   indicating the results of each of the above verifications, and drawing attention to the facts that
   justify the conclusion that the applicant is a seafarer.
   3.14. Once fully checked, the application, accompanied by the supporting documents and the
   notes for the record, should be forwarded to the official responsible for completion of the SID
   to be issued to the applicant.
   3.15. The completed SID, accompanied by the related file in the issuing authority, should then
   be forwarded to a senior official of that authority for approval.
   3.16. The senior official should give such approval only if satisfied, after review of at least the
   notes for the record, that the procedures have been properly followed and that the issuance of
   the SID to the applicant is justified.
   3.17. This approval should be given in writing and be accompanied by explanations
   concerning any features of the application that need special consideration.
   3.18. The SID (together with the passport or similar document provided) should be handed to
   the applicant directly against receipt, or sent to the applicant or, if the latter has so requested,
   to his or her shipmaster or employer in both cases by reliable postal communication requiring
   advice of receipt.
   3.19. When the SID is issued to the applicant, the particulars specified in Annex II to the
   Convention should be entered in the database referred to in Article 4 of the Convention.
   3.20. The rules of the issuing authority should specify a maximum period for receipt after
   dispatch. If advice of receipt is not received within that period and after due notification of the
   seafarer, an appropriate annotation should be made in the database and the SID should be
   officially reported as lost and the seafarer informed.
   3.21. All annotations to be made, such as, in particular, the brief notes for the record (see
   section 3.13 above) and the explanations referred to in section 3.17, should be kept in a safe
   place during the period of validity of the SID and for three years afterwards. Those
   annotations and explanations required by section 3.17 should be recorded in a separate
   internal database, and rendered accessible: (a) to persons responsible for monitoring
   operations; (b) to officials involved in the review of applications for SIDs; and (c) for training
   purposes.
   3.22. When information is received suggesting that a SID was wrongly issued or that the
   conditions for its issue are no longer applicable, the matter should be promptly notified to the
   issuing authority with a view to its rapid withdrawal.
   3.23. When a SID is suspended or withdrawn the issuing authority should immediately update
   its database to indicate that this SID is not currently recognized.
   3.24. If an application for a SID is refused or a decision is taken to suspend or withdraw a
   SID, the applicant should be officially informed of his or her right of appeal and fully
   informed of the reasons for the decision.
   3.25. The procedures for appeal should be as rapid as possible and consistent with the need
   for fair and complete consideration.
   4. Operation, security and maintenance of the database
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 ---pagebreak---    4.1. The issuing authority should make the necessary arrangements and rules to implement
   Article 4 of this Convention, ensuring in particular:
   4.1.1. the availability of a focal point or electronic access over 24 hours a day, seven days a
   week, as required under paragraphs 4, 5 and 6 of Article 4 of the Convention;
   4.1.2. the security of the database;
   4.1.3. the respect for individual rights in the storage, handling and communication of data;
   4.1.4. the respect for the seafarer's right to verify the accuracy of data relating to him or her
   and to have corrected, in a timely manner, any inaccuracies found.
   4.2. The issuing authority should draw up adequate procedures for protecting the database,
   including:
   4.2.1. a requirement for the regular creation of back-up copies of the database, to be stored on
   media held in a safe location away from the premises of the issuing authority;
   4.2.2. the restriction to specially authorized officials of permission to access or make changes
   to an entry in the database once the entry has been confirmed by the official making it.
   5. Quality control of procedures and periodic evaluations
   5.1. The issuing authority should appoint a senior official of recognized integrity, loyalty and
   reliability, who is not involved in the custody or handling of SIDs, to act as controller:
   5.1.1. to monitor on a continuous basis the implementation of these minimum requirements;
   5.1.2. to draw immediate attention to any shortcomings in the implementation;
   5.1.3. to provide the executive head and the concerned officials with advice on improvements
   to the procedures for the issuance of SIDs; and
   5.1.4. to submit a quality-control report to management on the above. The controller should, if
   possible, be familiar with all the operations to be monitored.
   5.2. The controller should report directly to the executive head of the issuing authority.
   5.3. All officials of the issuing authority, including the executive head, should be placed under
   a duty to provide the controller with all documentation or information that the controller
   considers relevant to the performance of his or her tasks.
   5.4. The issuing authority should make appropriate arrangements to ensure that officials can
   speak freely to the controller without fear of victimization.
   5.5. The terms of reference of the controller should require that particular attention be given to
   the following tasks:
   5.5.1. verifying that the resources, premises, equipment and staff are sufficient for the
   efficient performance of the functions of the issuing authority;
   5.5.2. ensuring that the arrangements for the safe custody of the blank and completed SIDs are
   adequate;
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 ---pagebreak---    5.5.3. ensuring that adequate rules, arrangements or procedures are in place in accordance
   with sections 2.6, 3.2, 4 and 5.4 above.
   5.5.4. ensuring that those rules and procedures, as well as arrangements, are well known and
   understood by the officials concerned;
   5.5.5. detailed monitoring on a random basis of each action carried out, including the related
   annotations and other records, in processing particular cases, from the receipt of the
   application for a SID to the end of the procedure for its issuance;
   5.5.6. verification of the efficacy of the security measures used for the custody of blank SIDs,
   implements and materials;
   5.5.7. verification, if necessary with the aid of a trusted expert, of the security and veracity of
   the information stored electronically and that the requirement for 24 hours a day, seven days a
   week access is maintained;
   5.5.8. investigating any reliable report of a possible wrongful issuance of a SID or of a
   possible falsification or fraudulent obtention of a SID, in order to identify any internal
   malpractice or weakness in systems that could have resulted in or assisted the wrongful
   issuance or falsification or fraud;
   5.5.9. investigating complaints alleging inadequate access to the details in the database given
   the requirements of paragraphs 2, 3 and 5 of Article 4 of the Convention, or inaccuracies in
   those details;
   5.5.10. ensuring that reports identifying improvements to the issuance procedures and areas of
   weakness have been acted upon in a timely and effective manner by the executive head of the
   issuing authority;
   5.5.11. maintaining records of quality-control checks that have been carried out;
   5.5.12. ensuring that management reviews of quality-control checks have been performed and
   that records of such reviews are maintained.
   5.6. The executive head of the issuing authority should ensure a periodic evaluation of the
   reliability of the issuance system and procedures, and of their conformity with the
   requirements of this Convention. Such evaluation should take into account the following:
   5.6.1. findings of any audits of the issuance system and procedures;
   5.6.2. reports and findings of investigations and of other indications relevant to the
   effectiveness of corrective action taken as a result of reported weaknesses or breaches of
   security;
   5.6.3. records of SIDs issued, lost, voided or spoiled;
   5.6.4. records relating to the functioning of quality control;
   5.6.5. records of problems with respect to the reliability or security of the electronic database,
   including inquiries made to the database;
   5.6.6. effects of changes to the issuance system and procedures resulting from technological
   improvements or innovations in the SID issuance procedures;
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 ---pagebreak---    5.6.7. conclusions of management reviews;
   5.6.8. audit of procedures to ensure that they are applied in a manner consistent with respect
   for fundamental principles and rights at work embodied in relevant ILO instruments.
   5.7. Procedures and processes should be put in place to prevent unauthorized disclosure of
   reports provided by other Members.
   5.8. All audit procedures and processes should ensure that the production techniques and
   security practices, including the stock control procedures, are sufficient to meet the
   requirements of this Annex.
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