"Phiphat" chaired a meeting on fisheries problem-solving, ordering the Marine Department to expedite unlocking six legal issues, promoting the separation of licenses and allowing new vessel construction. The goal is to reduce costs and increase flexibility while maintaining safety standards.
Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, presided over a meeting to monitor pending Marine Department laws aimed at meeting the needs and alleviating the hardships of fishermen. Joining him were Mr. Sanphet Boonyamanee, Deputy Minister of Transport, and representatives from provincial fisheries associations. They discussed finding the best solutions, with the Ministry of Transport emphasizing utmost support for fishermen, who are a key part of the grassroots economy.
The meeting concluded to expedite unlocking six key legal and regulatory issues to increase convenience and reduce obstacles, as follows:
1. Separate licenses: The Marine Department will amend ministerial regulations to separate the vessel use permit from the fishing operation license, increasing flexibility for operators.
2. Crew knowledge standards: The Ministry of Transport has approved draft regulations for knowledge exams for fishing vessel crew to raise skills and safety to international standards.
3. Vessel markings clarity: The Marine Department is collecting feedback to revise regulations on permanent markings for Thai vessels to align with current fishing practices.
4. Improve unloading vessel efficiency: Amend regulations to allow fishing vessels to conduct fishing and unload aquatic animals on the same vessel, reducing costs and improving product management efficiency.
5. Facilitate crew documentation: Speed up procedures and resolve document shortages by permitting temporary documents issued by the Marine Department when original booklets have issues, allowing fishermen to continue working without interruption.
6. New vessel construction for offshore fishing: The Marine Department allows construction of new vessels for fishing outside territorial waters. Operators must still obtain permits related to fisheries from the Department of Fisheries.
However, the Ministry of Transport, Marine Department, and Department of Fisheries are committed to driving these changes so fishermen can work smoothly, reducing complicated procedures while maintaining international water safety standards to ensure sustainability of the fishing profession.
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